PBA: Clutch Bong Quinto carries Meralco to OT win over Rain or Shine

PBA: Clutch Bong Quinto carries Meralco to OT win over Rain or Shine

MANILA, Philippines–Bong Quinto scored seven of his 16 points in overtime as Meralco downed Rain or Shine, 121-117, to notch its first victory in the PBA Philippine Cup on Saturday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Quinto made the first five points of the extension which was key in putting the Bolts on the win column after starting the conference with a loss to the Blackwater Bossing.

The two-way forward came through on the offensive side, especially after Meralco’s Chris Newsome fouled out in regulation.

SCHEDULE: 2024 PBA Philippine Cup

Allein Maliksi topscored with 26 points, Norbert Torres and Cliff Hodge posted 16 points apiece while Anjo Caram added 13 for the Bolts.

Meralco dealt Rain or Shine a second straight defeat, spoiling a 29-point showing of rookie Adrian Nocum.

Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao was tossed late in overtime after letting out his frustrations on the officials, resulting in two technical fouls.

The Bolts won despite squandering a 14-point lead as the Elasto Painters rallied in the third to turn the contest into a back-and-forth, grindout affair.

READ: PBA: Bong Quinto steps up for Meralco Bolts after Cliff Hodge exit

Quinto’s split free throws with barely a minute left in regulation actually sent the contest to overtime at 102-all.

Quinto started off the overtime with a three before responding from a Beau Belga

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