Meralco def Brgy. Ginebra, 108-104 [QF Game 2 | PBA S49 Comm’s Cup | Feb. 7, 2025]

Brgy. Ginebra finds itself in familiar territory as they gear up for another showdown against Meralco, fully aware of what lies ahead in their PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals clash.

In the series opener last Wednesday, Ginebra secured a 100-92 victory, inching closer to their goal of clinching a seventh consecutive semifinal berth.

With coach Tim Cone sidelined by a hoarse throat, assistant Del Rosario conveyed the team’s unwavering focus on what promises to be a grueling series against an opponent they’ve faced in the playoffs for the tenth time.

Meralco certainly posed challenges in Game 1, with Akil Mitchell—a key player who missed the Bolts’ last two elimination games due to a back injury—making a significant impact.

He recorded 19 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists, effectively supporting Chris Newsome, who led the team with 20 points.

Jansen Rios, Chris Banchero, and Bong Quinto also stepped up, enabling the Bolts to claw back from an early 12-point deficit. Remarkably, they even seized the lead at 87-85 with under eight minutes remaining.

However, the Gin Kings showcased their trademark resilience, rallying with a decisive 13-7 finish.

Key contributions from Thompson, Justin Brownlee, RJ Abarrientos, and Japeth Aguilar proved instrumental in securing the win and keeping Ginebra on the path to victory.