The Meralco Bolts got back on the winning track as they downed the NorthPort Batang Pier, 97-87, in the PBA Season 47 Philippine Cup on Thursday evening at the Ynares Center.
The Bolts got off to a fast start and led by 19 at halftime, 56-37. They kept their foot on the gas pedal and pushed their lead to a high 27 before cruising to the easy victory to bump their win-loss record to 3-1.
After missing the Bolts’ game against TNT last weekend, sensational guard Aaron Black returned in style putting up 20 points on 9-of-12 shooting and adding seven assists, and five rebounds.
Allein Maliksi and Chris Banchero each had 16 markers, while the ageless Reynel Hugnatan added 11. Former Cebu Eastern College standout Raymar Jose also had a solid outing, nearly getting a double-double with nine points and 13 rebounds.
On the other hand, the Batang Pier suffered its third straight loss and fell to 2-3 in the standings.
Jamie Malonzo led the way for NorthPort with 21 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, while Robert Bolick added 15 markers, eight rebounds, and seven assists.
Meralco thumps NorthPort to move up to second in PBA Philippine Cup
