FILE– Meralco Bolts’ EASL import Allen Durham. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Meralco absorbed its first loss in the 2024-25 season of the East Asia Super League (EASL) at the hands of Japan B.League squad, Ryukyu Golden Kings.
The Bolts’ late-game rally wasn’t enough as the Golden Kings notched a 77-74 win at Okinawa Arena in Japan on Wednesday.
Meralco failed to follow up its win on home soil a few weeks ago at the expense of the Macau Black Bears, 97-85, at Mall of Asia Arena.
The Bolts were down 77-68, with 2:36 to until they buckled down on offense and defense to mount a comeback rally.
READ: Chris Newsome impresses Macau coach in Meralco’s EASL opener
Longtime import Allen Durham and Bong Quinto converted buckets down the stretch to cut the lead to three, 77-74, with 41.7 remaining.
With the ball at the Golden Kings’ side, Meralco showed its hard-nosed defense on full display, preventing Ryukyu from pulling away.
But Meralco’s attempt to send the game into overtime came up short after a three-ball from Durham, who formerly played for the Golden Kings sailed out at the buzzer.
READ: Allen Durham shifts focus on Meralco Bolts’ next mission in EASL
Durham finished with 18 points, nine rebounds and five assists but it wasn’t enough as the Bolts slid to a 1-1 card in the EASL.
Import David Kennedy and Chris Newsome chipped in 30 and 18 points, respectively, but to no avail.
The Golden Kings relied on their big-man duo of Victor Law and Jack Cooley, who finished with 18 points a piece in their first win of the young season.
Up next for the Bolts is an affair with Korean Basketball League squad Busan KCC Egis on November 13 at Philsports Arena.