Meralco def Magnolia, 99-94 [PBA S49 Govs’ Cup | Aug. 18, 2024]

The highly anticipated PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup kicks off on Sunday with a thrilling matchup between Magnolia and reigning Philippine Cup champion Meralco, setting the stage for a banner year in the 2024-25 season.

The Hotshots, last season’s Commissioner’s Cup runners-up, will face off against the Bolts, who finally claimed their first league title after overcoming a series of heartbreaking Finals losses, including a thrilling victory over the San Miguel Beermen in the All-Filipino conference Finals.

The Purefoods franchise will showcase 2017 NBA Slam Dunk champion Glenn Robinson III, who will be put to the test by three-time PBA Best Import Allen Durham in the lone game of the season-opener, scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

Meanwhile, athletic big man Zavier Lucero will make his debut in a Magnolia uniform, following a trade that sent guard Jio Jalalon and Abu Tratter to the NorthPort Batang Pier last July. Lucero, a 6-foot-5 high-leaper, impressed during the Philippine Cup, averaging 12.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.0 assists with the Batang Pier after recovering from a torn ACL sustained during his final UAAP season with the University of the Philippines.

Magnolia coach Chito Victolero believes Robinson’s wealth of NBA experience will be a valuable asset to the Hotshots, who are eager to win a PBA title since their last championship in the 2018 Governors’ Cup. Victolero also praised Robinson’s good attitude and leadership, which will be crucial in leading the team.

The Hotshots have also bolstered their lineup with rookie Peter Alfaro, who will learn from veteran stars Mark Barroca and Paul Lee, and first-round selection Jerom Lastimosa, who is recovering from a season-ending knee injury. The team’s veteran core, including Calvin Abueva, Rafi Reavis, Rome de la Rosa, Jerrick Ahanmisi, and backup big men James Laput, Russel Escoto, and Joseph Eriobu, will provide a strong foundation.

Meralco, meanwhile, boasts a solid veteran core led by Allein Maliksi, Cliff Hodge, Chris Banchero, Aaron Black, Raymond Almazan, and incoming sophomore big man Brandon Bates, who impressed against June Mar Fajardo in the Philippine Cup title series. First-round rookie pick CJ Cansino is the team’s new addition for the season.