Meralco def Magnolia, 82-74 [PBA S49 Govs’ Cup | Sep. 7, 2024]

Surging Meralco aims to seize the solo lead in Group A and inch closer to clinching a playoff berth when the Bolts face off against the Magnolia Hotshots, who will debut a new import in the PBA Governors’ Cup this Saturday at the Panabo Multi-Purpose Tourism, Sports and Cultural Center in Panabo City, Davao del Norte.

Meralco is eager to replicate its earlier 99-94 triumph over Magnolia during the season opener on August 18.

The Bolts have showcased resilience by winning their last three matches despite the absence of key veterans such as Allein Maliksi, Raymund Almazan, Aaron Black, and Norbert Torres due to injuries.

Having recently captured the franchise’s first-ever championship in the Philippine Cup, the Bolts continue to rely on the consistent performances of three-time PBA Best Import Allen Durham, veteran guard Christ Banchero, and tenacious forward Cliff Hodge.

In their last outing, Meralco delivered a dominant 116-88 victory against Converge earlier this week.

On the other hand, the Hotshots, guided by coach Chito Victolero, are riding a two-game winning streak, capped by a 105-94 victory over an import-less NorthPort side last Wednesday.

To bolster their lineup, Magnolia has recruited NBA veteran Shabbaz Muhammad as their new import, replacing Glenn Robinson III. The 31-year-old Muhammad is a well-known figure among PBA fans, having previously played for San Miguel in 2022.

A prolific scorer, Muhammad is expected to provide formidable outside shooting for Magnolia as the team intensifies its efforts to snap a six-year championship drought.