MANILA, Philippines — Meralco proved steadier down the stretch as it nosed out Magnolia in a thrilling 105-102 overtime win in their do-or-die quarterfinal duel to advance to the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup semifinals on Saturday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
The Bolts made three of their last six foul shots in the end game, aided by the costly turnover by Magnolia sophomore guard Jerom Lastimosa, allowing Meralco to escape with the win.
The Hotshots managed to force the knockout duel following their 95-89 win last Thursday against the fourth seed Bolts, who opened the playoffs armed with a win-once advantage.
But Magnolia couldn’t sustain its effort in a game marked by 13 deadlocks and 14 lead changes.
Meralco thus awaits the winner of the other NLEX-TNT quarterfinal pairing, which is being played as of posting time.
Marvin Jones led the Bolts with 28 points and nine rebounds, Chris Newsome had 18, while CJ Cansino chipped in 16, five boards and four assists.
Cliff Hodge and Bong Quinto also finished in double figures with 14 and 11, respectively.
The early playoff exit of Magnolia put to waster Lastimosa’s efforts as the former Adamson guard scored 21 of his team-high 28 points in the regulation period and overtime.
Import Clint Chapman also had 26 points, while veteran Mark Barroca added 22 markers and five assists for the Hotshots.
