Meralco erases 23-point deficit to pull off comeback win vs Phoenix 

Meralco erased a 23-point deficit against Phoenix to complete a come-from-behind win against Phoenix, 111-109, on Friday in the PBA Commissioner's Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Phoenix had its biggest lead, 71-48, in the second period before Meralco made a run to end the first half at 73-54.

The second half, however, was a different story.

Meralco continued to pound against the Fuel Masters as Phoenix led 99-91 with 7:44 left in the final frame. However, Bong Quinto, Chris Newsome, and import Akil Mitchell's efforts trimmed the deficit to within one, 102-101, with less than five minutes left.

Phoenix led 105-101, thanks to Tyler Tio's split and import Donovan Smith's layup, but the Bolts made an 8-0 run to steal the lead. Tio answered with a jumper, followed by a Smith basket which tied the game at 109. Mitchell's basket eventually sealed the deal for the Bolts.

Mitchell had 27 points, 13 rebounds, six steals, and three assists for the Bolts, while Newsome had 23 as they opened their conference. Aaron Black, who returned from injury, had 15 points, eight rebounds, and five assists.

Smith had 33 points and nine boards, along with two blocks, an assist, and a steal, while Kai Ballungay had 18 points.

Scores:

Meralco 111 – Mitchell 27, Newsome 23, Black 15, Quinto 14, Caram 10, Rios 8, Hodge 7, Jose 5, Almazan 2, Pasaol 0.

Phoenix 109 – Smith 33, Ballungay 18, Tio 17, Rivero 14, Alejandro 6, Perkins 6, Jazul 6, Manganti 4, Tuffin 3, Verano 2, Ular 0.

Quarters:  25-36, 54-73, 78-91, 111-109.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News