Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — The Alaska Aces grinded out a hard-earned win against the Meralco Bolts, 81-79, on Wednesday evening at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
Vic Manuel posted a double-double performance with 22 points and 10 rebounds for the Aces.
With Meralco leading by nine points in the crucial minutes of the contest, Alaska banked on its steady plays to weather the storm.
Jvee Casio and Manuel scored back-to-back baskets to cut the deficit to a single possession game, 77-75, with less than two minutes remaining in the match.
RJ Jazul’s corner triple gave the edge to the Aces, 78-77, with 27.3 seconds to go.
But a three point play from Jonathan Grey put the Bolts back on top, 79-78.
Chris Banchero had ice in his veins after knocking down a three-pointer to seal the win and help Alaska climb up to 2-2 in the team standings.
Chris Newsome registered 23 points, while Cliff Hodge added 16 for Meralco who dropped to 2-2.
The Aces’ next assignment is Barangay Ginebra on December 18 (Sunday) at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
The scores:
Alaska (81) – Manuel 22, Banchero 9, Abueva 9, Mendoza 9, Casio 8, Jazul 7, Dela Cruz 6, Exciminiano 4, Magat 2, Pascual 2, Hontiveros 2, Racal 1, Galliguez 0, Cruz 0.
Meralco (79) – Newsome 23, Hodge 16, Hugnatan 15, Grey 8, Daquioag 6, Amer 4, Al-Hussaini 2, Caram 2, Yeo 2, Chua 1, Faundo 0, Nabong 0, Uyloan 0.
Quarterscores: 22-26, 42-36, 55-61, 81-79.
