The Meralco Bolts is scheduled for a head-to-head game against the Phoenix Super LPG Fuelmasters at 4:30 PM on March 5, 2023 live from the PhilSports Arena at Pasig City, Metro Manila.
The Bolts wanted to continue where they left off and pile more wins as playoffs is just around the corner while the Fuelmasters will try to make a quick bounce-back win and solidify their quarterfinals bid when PBA third conference resumes this afternoon.
The Meralco Bolts will face the Phoenix Super LPG in the PBA Governors Cup at the PhilSports Arena on Sunday.
Both teams are in the last game of the 11-game elimination round, which will help determine their position in the standings. Meralco needs to win to secure a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals.
Coach Jamike Jarin of Phoenix emphasized the importance of winning this match, saying, “To uncomplicate things we just have to get a win tomorrow.”
Meralco is still celebrating its 132-129 overtime win against Converge last Friday. The Bolts failed to hold on to an 18-point lead, but Allein Maliksi made a dagger triple that gave the team a 130-128 lead in the last 34 seconds of the game. KJ McDaniels had 33 points and 12 rebounds, while Aaron Black had 28 points, eight boards, and five assists.
Coach Norman Black of Meralco said that his team still has a chance to crash into the top four if they beat Phoenix in their last game. However, Phoenix also needs to win to secure their place in the next round after a 1-5 start to the season-ending tournament.
“We’ve got to come in with a lot of energy which we lacked last night,” said Coach Jarin. “Also, hopefully, we make some shots that should help us in our offense. Kasi we had some open looks last night, but unfortunately, our shots didn’t fall in.”
Both teams are looking forward to this match, and fans can expect a thrilling game. “It’s a big game for us,” said Black. “We’re going to come out and play as hard as we can.” Meanwhile, Jarin emphasized that his team should focus on getting the win to secure their place in the next round.
Fans can expect an intense game between these two teams, and it remains to be seen who will come out on top. As Coach Black said, “It’s always a challenge when you play Phoenix,” and this match will be no exception.