Meralco Bolts’ Reynel Hugnatan puts up a shot during a game against the Phoenix Fuel Masters in the 2022 PBA Philippine Cup at Ynares Center in Antipolo. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines-Meralco got its act together in the fourth quarter to hammer out a 109-98 decision over Phoenix Super LPG Saturday night that got the Bolts off to a swashbuckling start in the PBA Philippine Cup at Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
Reynel Hugnatan poured 10 of his 17 points in the fourth to backstop Chris Newsome’s equally impressive night of 21 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists as the Bolts came back from 15 down.
Aaron Black, Allein Maliksi, Raymond Almazan, and Bong Quinto finished with 12 or more as Meralco kept Phoenix winless in the tournament.
The Fuel Masters drew 28 points from Jason Perkins. Matthew Wright chipped in 16 while RJ Jazul 13 as the Fuel Masters dropped to 0-2.
Up next for Norman Black and his charges is Converge, which is coming off a thrilling overtime victory over conference finalist Magnolia.
Phoenix, meanwhile, hopes to break through when it plays Terrafirma, an injury-hit club also looking for a first win in the conference.
The Scores
Meralco 109 – Newsome 21, Black 19, Hugnatan 17, Maliksi 15, Almazan 12, Quinto 12, Hodge 5, Banchero 4, Caram 0, Pasaol 0, Jose 0, Pascual 0, Baclao 0.
Phoenix 98 – Perkins 28, Wright 16, Jazul 13, Mocon 10, Tio 9, Serrano 7, Garcia 6, Lalata 4, Rios 3, Melecio 2, Porter 0.
Quarters: 23-23, 45-51, 75-79, 109-98.