Metro Manila (CNN Philippines,, April 3) — There’s no championship hangover for San Miguel as the Beermen started their 2017 PBA Commissioner’s Cup crusade on a positive note.
The Beermen turned back the Meralco Bolts, 99-92, on Sunday night at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
June Mar Fajardo posted 24 points and 12 rebounds for San Miguel.
Things were going right for the Bolts in the first half as they established a 46-35 advantage at the break.
The Beermen tightened their defense at the third frame to tie the score at 64 heading into the payoff period.
Resident sniper Marcio Lassiter knocked down back-to-back baskets to push SMB to a comfortable cushion with under three minutes to play.
A corner triple by Jared Dillinger was too late for the Bolts to spark a last stand as the Beermen pulled away for good with a Chris Ross-Fajardo connection at the dying seconds of the match.
Alex Cabagnot chipped in 23 points and nine rebounds, while import Charles Rhodes contributed 22 points for San Miguel.
Alex Stepheson tallied 21 markers and 26 boards for Meralco who suffered its first setback in five outings.
The Beermen will collide with the Phoenix Fuel Masters on April 7 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
