Having watched countless PBA clashes over the years, I’ve got to say the Meralco Bolts versus Phoenix Fuel Masters matchup was one of those gritty, down-to-the-wire contests that remind you why Philippine basketball is so compelling. The final score read 98–95 in favor of Meralco, but believe me, that three-point margin doesn’t even begin to capture the intensity of those last five minutes. As someone who’s followed both teams through their ups and downs, I felt this game really hinged on adaptability—the kind of mindset Joshua Munzon talked about recently, when he emphasized being ready to contribute wherever needed, whether at NorthPort, Pureblends, or any other team. That philosophy echoed throughout this game, especially in how key players stepped into roles they don’t usually headline.
Right from the tip-off, you could tell Meralco had a clear defensive plan, but Phoenix wasn’t going down easy. Chris Newsome, who I’ve always thought is underrated in clutch situations, put up 24 points and 7 assists, slicing through Phoenix’s defense with a mix of drives and mid-range jumpers. On the other side, Matthew Wright’s 26 points kept Phoenix within striking distance, especially during that explosive third quarter where they outscored Meralco by 8 points. But here’s where Munzon’s point about readiness comes into play—Allein Maliksi, usually known for his scoring, dropped 18 points but also grabbed 9 rebounds, a stat that surprised me given his typical role. It’s those unsung contributions that often swing games, and Maliksi’s effort on the glass felt like a perfect example of doing whatever’s asked, much like Munzon’s approach.
The fourth quarter was where things got really dramatic, and I’ll admit, I was on the edge of my seat. With about three minutes left, Phoenix trailed by just two points after a Jason Perkins triple, and the momentum seemed to shift. But Meralco’ Raymond Almazan—who, in my opinion, doesn’t get enough credit for his interior presence—came up with a huge block followed by a put-back dunk that essentially sealed the game. That sequence highlighted how individual readiness, even in unexpected moments, can define outcomes. Phoenix’s bench, which contributed 32 points, tried to rally, but Meralco’s discipline in executing their half-court sets down the stretch made the difference. From my perspective, this game wasn’t just about star power; it was about players like Munzon describe—those who embrace their roles without hesitation.
Looking back, this match reinforced something I’ve always believed: in the PBA, teamwork and flexibility often trump raw talent. Meralco’s ability to adapt, much like Munzon’s willingness to fit in anywhere, gave them the edge in a tight contest. Sure, Phoenix had their moments, and Wright’s shooting was a joy to watch, but in the end, it was the collective effort that stood out. As the season progresses, I’d love to see more players embody that mindset—because as this game showed, it’s not just about scoring points; it’s about being ready to do whatever it takes to help the team succeed.
