January 06, 2025

Meralco aims to recharge vs Eastern in resumption of PBA Commissioner’s Cup

Meralco aims to recharge vs Eastern in resumption of PBA Commissioner’s Cup
Cliff Hodge is expected to take a major role on the defensive end against Eastern. | Photo (c) PBA

The Meralco Bolts look to snap a two-game slide when they face Hong Kong Eastern in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup on Sunday, Jan. 5, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.

Tip-off is set for 5:00 p.m.

Meralco, now at 3-2, is eager to bounce back after a sorry 110-94 Christmas Day-loss to Converge.

[ALSO READ: PBA Commissioner's Cup refresher: Championship contenders still figuring things out]

Despite the return of import Akil Mitchell and veteran sniper Allein Maliksi, the Bolts simply struggled to find their rhythm to close 2024.

Mitchell, who had been a stabilizing force for the Bolts before suffering an injury against Rain or Shine, is expected to lead the charge alongside Chris Newsome and Maliksi.

Meralco will need to tighten its defense to contain Eastern's versatile lineup and regain momentum in the mid-season conference.

[ALSO READ: What If’: Which teams could battle in best-of-3 quarterfinals of PBA Commissioner's Cup?]

(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)

[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]

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