Here are the live scores, updates, and results of the 2020 PBA Philippine Cup between the Meralco Bolts and the NorthPort Batang Pier, scheduled on November 11, 2020, at 1 PM.
At the buzzer, Chris Newsome proved that he is a clutch player as he hit a fadeaway jumper with seven seconds left on the clock, and it counted, giving the 95-93 decision in favor of the Bolts over the cellar-dweller Terrafirma Dyip.
With the win, Meralco hiked its record to 6-4, just a win away from tying with TNT Tropang Giga, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Gin Kings, and Alaska Aces with a 7-4 win-loss record and are all vying to clinch a Top 4 berth in the playoffs.
Raymond Almazan finished with a double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds for the Bolts, who also got 14 points, eight rebounds, and four assists from sophomore guard Bong Quinto. Newsome added 12 markers.
Meanwhile, the Batang Pier went on the losing end anew in the hands of the defending champions San Miguel Beermen, 120-99.
The offensive and defensive prowess of SMB proved too tough for the Batang Pier to pierce, leading to a one-sided match that was practically over after the two middle quarters. The loss dropped NorthPort to a 1-9 slate.
Christian Standhardinger was a sure miss the last time out, scoring only 10 points and seven rebounds, way below his pre-game averages of 21 and 12.6. Despite leading all scorers with 29 points and 10 rebounds before fouling out, Kelly Nabong’s contribution to his team was simply not enough.