The Blackwater Elite shocked the Meralco Bolts in the 2019 PBA Commissioner’s Cup opener as the game needed an additional five minutes, 94-91.
Former Meralco import Alex Stepheson delivered a monster performance with his 21 points and 31 rebounds.
It was a battle of different types of imports, Blackwater’s Stepheson showcased his heft and power inside the paint while Meralco’s reinforcement got his athleticism and abilit to use the back-board to manufacture his points.
Second overall pick of the 2018 PBA Draft Ray Ray Parks Jr., just made his PBA debut with a victory.
He gave his squad a 20 points, 6 rebounds and three steals. Though he committed 8 turnovers as he transition to the premier basketball league in the country.
Mike DiGregorio added 21 points for the winning ball-club and continue to be the Elite’s solid marksman.
Meralco got 34 points and 21 rebounds from Gani Lawal. He had the chance to send the game into double-overtime but his three-pointer wasn’t able to find the bottom of the nets.
Mike Tolomia chipped in 11 points for the Bolts who is the only local from the bench of coach Norman Black to reach double-figures in scoring.
Blackwater vs Meralco Box Score
Quarters: 17-19 | 37-42 | 64-63 | 85-85 | 94-91.
Elite (94) – Digregorio 21, Stepheson 21, Parks 20, Maliksi 12, Belo 6, Sena 4, Sumang 4, Dario 3, Al-Hussaini 2, Alolino 1
Bolts 91 – Lawal 34, Tolomia 11, Jackson 8, Pinto 7, Newsome 5, Salva 5, Hodge 4, Hugnatan 4, Amer 4, De Ocampo 4, Canaleta 3, Caram 2