Calvin Abueva erupted for a career-high 41 points to lead Titan Ultra past Meralco, 100-96, on Wednesday in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
The veteran player went 14-of-27 from the field, including four triples, and added seven rebounds and a steal in a dominant all-around performance.
After a 45-all deadlock, the league newcomer Giant Risers pulled away in the third period, outscoring the Bolts 31-18 to take a 76-63 lead heading into the final frame.
Meralco mounted a rally in the fourth and pulled within three, 98-95, with 17 seconds left after a four-point basket by CJ Cansino. But Joshua Munzon sank his free throws to virtually seal the win for Titan.
Aside from Abueva, Munzon chipped in 14 points, while Cade Flores added 10.
Cansino led the Bolts with 22 points, while Raymond Almazan and Bong Quinto contributed 16 and 15 points, respectively, for Meralco.
Scores:
Titan 100 – Abueva 41, Munzon 14, Flores 10, Yu 9, Ular 8, Koon 6, Pessumal 5, Balanza 2, Ambohot 3, Cuntapay 0, Sumang 0, Melecio 0, Barasi 0.
Meralco 96 – Cansino 22, Almazan 16, Quinto 15, Bates 10, Newsome 9, Hodge 7, Banchero 6, Maliksi 5, Black 4, Pascual 2, Jose 0, Reyson 0.
Quarters: 23-25, 45-45, 76-63, 100-96.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
