Meralco outlasted Magnolia in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup opener on Sunday, August 18.
Weeks before the season unfolded, Meralco strength and conditioning coach Diego Lozano told Chris Banchero he would make the historic first four-point basket in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup.
On Sunday, Aug. 18, Banchero did just that.
The Fil-Italian playmaker got the rock from the right elbow off an Allen Durham kickout and unleashed the shot from 27-feet with 10:26 remaining in the second period.
The ball went in, sending the orange-clad crowd in the Smart Araneta Coliseum into a frenzy.
“It’s always good to be in the record books. Happy I got to make it,” said Banchero. “Coach Diego said a couple of weeks ago that I'd be the first one to make it. We did.”
Overall, Meralco went 2-for-5 from that range, with Jolo Mendoza also making one.
But while Banchero felt good in notching his historic feat, what mattered more for him was winning a tough game against Magnolia.
“I’m just happy we got the win tonight. That's a tough team we played. They came prepared,” Banchero said after the Bolts' 99-94 victory in Allen Durham’s return.
“I’m glad we're able to get that win. This season, this conference is just going to go by quick, so every win is extremely important.”
Tougher test actually awaits Meralco.
On Thursday, the reigning Philippine Cup champion will square off against Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and TNT at the same venue.
“We’re going against one of the best in TNT with Rondae. Imports can take over anytime. It’s going to be a tough conference,” he said.