The Meralco Bolts were unable to complete their late-game comeback as the Alaska Aces withstand their attempt to steal the victory, 89-93.
Prior to the start of the game, Alaska Aces point guard Chris Banchero was reported that he’s feeling some pain from his hand.
In the first quarter, that sideline report seems to be true as Banchero only scored five points. Then on the following quarters, the Fil-Italian went unstoppable and contributed a total of 23 points along with his 9 rebounds and 4 assists.
He was also later named as the Bida Player of the Game because of his stellar performance.
Vic Manuel slowly became his old self as he notched 17 points and 6 rebounds in his second game after coming back from an injury. Manuel also made his usual high percentage shooting from the field, in this game he got 6-of-9.
Manuel and Banchero took over the slack as their import Chris Daniels had a limited minutes due to foul troubles.
Meralco on the other hand were unable to capitalize their opponent’s import struggle instead Alaska lead ballooned to 13 points in the third quarter.
In the final quarter, the Bolts had their shock as they tried to overtake Alaska after Amer Baser converted a three-pointer with only 1:46 remaining in the game.
Yet, Banchero and Simon Enciso made their respective answers to keep Meralco at bay.
Alaska continue their hot streak which is now at three in a row while the Bolts consecutive wins was put on a halt.
Chris Banchero With The Double Pump
Alaska vs Meralco Box Score
Quarters: 18-19 | 44-42 | 71-66 | 93-89
Aces (93) – Banchero 23, Manuel 17, Daniels 12, Teng 10, Pascual 7, Thoss 7, Enciso 5, Galliguez 5, Casio 3, Racal 2, Cruz 2
Bolts (89) – Lawal 27, Amer 11, Salva 9, Quinto 9, Newsome 8, Caram 7, Hugnatan 4, Hodge 4, De Ocampo 3, Pinto 3, Canaleta 2, Jackson 2