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Thompson Sparks Ginebra Past Meralco, Moves Closer to Semis

Photo: PBA Images

For Barangay Ginebra, the playoffs always bring a familiar opponent. And more often than not, a familiar result.

In yet another playoff matchup, Ginebra outlasted Meralco, 100-92, in Game 1 of their PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals, moving one win away from advancing to the semifinals. It wasn’t easy – the Bolts’ defensive intensity made sure of that – but in the game’s momentum-shifting moments, it was Scottie Thompson who performed at his best.

The former PBA MVP delivered an all-around showing, finishing with 23 points on an ultra-efficient 9-of-13 shooting, along with seven rebounds, six assists, and four steals. But beyond the numbers, it was his relentless energy and timely shot-making that helped Ginebra pull away in the final quarter, where they outscored Meralco 22-16.

“Overall, yun yung gusto ko – maging aggressive on both ends, offense and defense,” said Thompson after the game. “Nagkataon na-shoot mga tira ko. Credit sa mga teammates ko, nahanap ako. [Good sign] saamin yun na yung bola gumagalaw sa offense namin.”

A Familiar Rivalry, A Familiar Battle

This is the 11th time Ginebra and Meralco have faced off in the PBA postseason, a rivalry built on physicality, defensive battles, and unforgettable moments. Ginebra now holds an 8-2 series advantage in their postseason matchups and is looking to make it 9-2 with one more win.

“Nagkataon lang siguro na tuwing playoffs kami nagtapat,” Thompson stated. There’s nothing coincidental about why these two teams keep running into each other in the playoffs – it’s because both know how to run winning programs.

Ginebra assistant coach Richard Del Rosario, filling in for Tim Cone, acknowledged the difficulty of facing Meralco’s defense.

“It was really a tough game. Meralco’s a very good defensive team. They made it difficult for us to execute our offense,” he said.

That much was evident in the second half, with the Bolts forcing Ginebra into some uncomfortable possessions. But the Gin Kings found their rhythm as the game progressed, using crisp ball movement, points in the paint, and transition opportunities to break down the defense.

Winning the Battles Inside

While Meralco’s defensive schemes gave Ginebra problems, the Gin Kings imposed their will in two key areas: rebounding and efficiency.

“We did a better job against Meralco in getting rebounds, but it’s going to be tougher,” Del Rosario admitted. “They know what we’re doing. Very familiar and their import, he looks like he’s already recovered from the back injury. He gave us a lot of problems and the guards got in the paint. We have a lot to work on defensively.”

Ginebra won the battle on the glass, 46-41, limiting Meralco’s second-chance opportunities while generating extra possessions of their own. They also shot an impressive 52.1% from the field.

ALSO READ: Thompson Silences Critics With Standout Performance for Gilas

Meralco’s Adjustments for Game 2

Despite the loss, Meralco showed resilience, as Chris Newsome finished with 20 points on 80% shooting, and import Akil Mitchell leading the way with 19 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists. However, his struggles from the field (7-of-19) reflected how Ginebra’s defense made him work for every shot.

With Game 2 set for Friday at 5 PM, the Bolts are now in must-win territory. Del Rosario expects an even tougher challenge.

“They do a lot of things that take you out of that execution,” he said, referring to Meralco’s defensive schemes. “We have a lot to work on defensively.”

For Ginebra, the mission is clear: close out the series and avoid a winner-take-all Game 3. For Meralco, the challenge is just as simple – find a way to extend the series and keep their playoff hopes alive.