Magnolia Extends Winning Streak To 7 With Dominant Performance VS Meralco

The Magnolia Chicken Timplados continued their unstoppable march in the PBA On Tour, securing their seventh consecutive victory with a commanding 121-101 triumph over Meralco at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

Coming off the bench, Paul Lee put on a scorching shooting display, tallying 28 points in just 19 minutes of playing time. Lee’s impressive performance included a remarkable 7-of-9 shooting from beyond the arc, igniting the Hotshots and propelling them to another comprehensive win.

Lee’s impact was most evident late in the second quarter when he knocked down three consecutive three-pointers, triggering a game-changing 17-1 run that transformed a seven-point deficit into a commanding 27-18 lead for Magnolia.

While Meralco managed to mount a threat and close the gap to 73-69 in the third quarter, Chito Victolero’s squad responded with a 12-0 run, capped off by another Lee three-pointer, reestablishing a comfortable 16-point cushion.

Lee received solid contributions from his teammates throughout the game. Jio Jalalon registered 18 points and six assists, while James Laput recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Mark Barroca, Jerrick Ahanmisi, and Joseph Eriobu also joined the double-digit scoring parade for the Hotshots.

Magnolia maintained their unblemished record in the preseason series, presented by Arena Plus and sponsored by Bingo Plus, making them the only team without a loss thus far. On the other hand, Meralco dropped to a 4-3 record, hindered by their depleted roster.

“Before the start of the PBA On Tour, the whole team had a discussion and set goals for what we wanted to achieve. It’s gratifying to see that all the guys are locked in, and the coaching staff is guiding us,” shared Paul Lee, highlighting the team’s collective effort and focus.

Diego Dario stepped up for the undermanned Meralco squad, taking on the primary playmaking duties in the absence of Anjo Caram, who was sidelined with a hamstring injury. Dario impressed with 22 points, including six three-pointers, showcasing his shooting prowess.

The Hotshots’ dominance was evident as Paul Lee set the tone with his explosive performance in the first half, scoring 22 points to establish Magnolia’s commanding lead. The team’s relentless effort and commitment to improvement bode well for the upcoming regular season as they aim to carry their winning momentum forward.

Despite manpower challenges, Meralco displayed resilience and mounted a comeback from a 44-26 second-quarter deficit. Bong Quinto contributed 14 points, nine rebounds, and five assists for the Bolts, who fought hard but ultimately fell short against the dominant Magnolia squad.

With their seventh consecutive victory, Magnolia Chicken Timplados continues to assert their dominance in the preseason, setting their sights on translating their success into the regular season.