ELECTRIYING VICTORY The Meralco Bolts celebrate as they secure their first-ever PBA title by outplaying the San Miguel Beermen in a thrilling final to win the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup Championship. Chris Newsome was named Finals MVP. PBA PHOTO
The Meralco Bolts made history by winning their first-ever PBA title, defeating the San Miguel Beermen in a thrilling final to claim the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup Championship.
The Bolts managed to edge out the Beermen with a final score of 80-78, showcasing their determination and skill throughout the intense matchup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on June 16, 2024.
Chris Newsome, the standout player for the Bolts, was named Finals MVP. Newsome's all-around performance was crucial to Meralco's success, as he scored 15 points, leading his team both offensively and defensively.
The game was a nail-biter from start to finish, with Meralco taking an early lead in the first quarter, 29-18. The Beermen, known for their resilience and championship pedigree, fought back in the second quarter, narrowing the gap to 47-40 by halftime. The third quarter saw the Bolts maintaining a slim lead, ending at 63-58.
San Miguel's June Mar Fajardo was the top scorer of the game, putting up 21 points in a valiant effort to keep his team in contention.
Teammates CJ Perez and Marcio Lassiter contributed 14 and 11 points, respectively, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Bolts' balanced attack and staunch defense.
Meralco's scoring was well-distributed, with significant contributions from Allein Maliksi, who scored 14 points, and Bong Quinto, who added 11.
Key plays from players like Aaron Bancheor, who scored 10 points, and Raymond Almazan, who contributed nine, were pivotal in maintaining their lead throughout the game.
The Bolts' defense played a crucial role in their victory, with players like Cliff Hodge and Anjo Caram making important stops and securing crucial rebounds. Meralco's ability to hold off the Beermen's late-game surge in the final quarter showcased their tenacity and composure under pressure.
This championship win marks a significant milestone for the Meralco Bolts franchise, who have come close to winning titles in the past but have fallen short.
The Scores:
MERALCO 80 – Newsome 15, Maliksi 14, Quinto 11, Bancheor 10, Almazan 9, Caram 6, Torres 6, Hodge 6, Bates 3, Rios 0
SAN MIGUEL 78 – Fajardo 21, Perez 14, Lassiter 11, Tautuaa 10, Romeo 9, Trollano 7, Ross 1, Enciso 0, Teng 0, Cruz 0, Brondial 0
QUARTERS: 29-18, 47-40, 63-58, 80-78