Bolts take advantage of Jois’ early exit, beat Batang Pier

Meralco seized the opportunity presented by Venky Jois’s early departure, handing NorthPort a decisive 114-104 defeat that all but guaranteed the Bolts a place in the quarterfinals of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14.

With Jois sidelined due to what appeared to be a right foot injury late in the first quarter, Meralco, spearheaded by Allen Durham, Chris Newsome, and Chris Banchero, overwhelmed the Batang Pier, improving their record to 6-2 in Group A.

Durham was the standout performer, posting an impressive 23 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. However, it was the dynamic backcourt duo of Newsome and Banchero who sealed the victory, combining for 15 of the Bolts’ 25 points in the final quarter to keep NorthPort at arm’s length.

Newsome recorded a double-double with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Banchero added 19 points, including three crucial three-pointers.

Meralco also enjoyed significant contributions from their bench, with CJ Cansino scoring 12 points—eight of which came from beyond the four-point line—while Brandon Bates and Anjo Caram chipped in with 12 and 11 points, respectively. This performance allowed the Bolts to bounce back impressively from a previous 108-99 loss to Group A leader TNT.

On the other hand, Arvin Tolentino made a valiant effort for NorthPort, finishing with 28 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, but the Batang Pier’s chances were severely diminished without Jois’s presence.

The NorthPort import sustained his foot injury while attempting to secure a rebound, going down with 3:17 left in the opening period. According to reports, Jois experienced a popping sensation in his foot and was unable to move or bear weight on it.

He was promptly stretchered off the court and taken to the hospital for further evaluation.

Joshua Munzon added 17 points for NorthPort, while Damie Cuntapay and Will Navarro tried to compensate for Jois’s absence with 12 and 11 points, respectively, but their efforts fell short against the formidable Bolts.

As a result of the defeat, NorthPort slipped out of the Top of Group A, falling to the fifth spot with a 3-5 record.

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