With new import Akil Mitchell in tow, the Meralco Bolts begin their hunt for the Commissioner's Cup title against the Phoenix Fuel Masters in PBA Season 49.
The Meralco Bolts are set to launch their PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup campaign against the Phoenix Fuel Masters on November 29 at 5:00 p.m. at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
With high hopes for a strong start, Meralco will be banking on their new import, Akil Mitchell, who has already impressed in the East Asia Super League (EASL).
Mitchell delivered a monster performance in his debut, tallying 33 points and 22 rebounds against the Busan KCC Egis. Head coach Luigi Trillo is optimistic about Mitchell’s impact, comparing him to former Meralco import and three-time PBA Best Import Allen Durham.
After a quarterfinal finish in last season’s Commissioner’s Cup, the Bolts are determined to make deeper playoff strides this year.
Meanwhile, the Phoenix Fuel Masters are looking to bounce back from a tough 102-87 loss to guest team Hong Kong Eastern in their conference opener.
Donovan Smith shone in the defeat, recording 33 points and 11 rebounds, while Jason Perkins added 22 points, five rebounds, and four assists.
Phoenix is hungry for their first win of the conference and will look to capitalize on their homegrown talents alongside Smith's dominance in the paint.
This matchup promises to deliver high-intensity basketball as Meralco aims to start their campaign with a victory and Phoenix fights to avoid a 0-2 hole.
Fans can expect a thrilling duel between two squads eager to make an early statement in the Commissioner’s Cup.
[Editor's note: This article was generated by AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]