Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Meralco rode on Gani Lawal Jr.’s monster game and took advantage of a deflated and depleted Phoenix Pulse, 101-95, in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup on, Friday night at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Lawal scored 28 points and pulled down 26 rebounds, both game-highs, to help the Bolts chalk up two consecutive victories—something they haven’t been able to do this season.
“It was nice to get some momentum this tournament. It’s been a long time since we won two games in a row,” said coach Norman Black, whose charges improved to 3-2.
“First half, I thought we struggled. In the second, Gani came up with a lot of energy, particularly off the boards. He [was the] difference for us in the second half.”
Baser Amer added 20 points for Meralco.
Phoenix, without coach Louie Alas and top forward Calvin Abueva, turned to Matthew Wright and last season’s top rookie Jason Perkins to prop the squad that has been through a trying stretch.
In the second game, Rain or Shine routed defending champion Barangay Ginebra, 104-81, behind a career night by Rey Nambatac, who registered 30 points, and Denzel Bowles’ double-double of 25 points and 17 rebounds.
“I think [this game] was a challenge for the players. I told them that everybody becomes better when they play against Ginebra,” coach Caloy Garcia said. “They’re the defending champions of this conference.”
Meanwhile, the PBA will hold its annual blood donation drive on June 16 at the Big Dome.
Held in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross and Smart Araneta Coliseum, the blood donation drive starts at 12 noon at the green gate.
Qualified persons should be 18 to 60 years old, however, those from 61 to 65 years old must be a regular blood donor. Donors aged 16 and 17 years old should have their parent’s consent with them.