ANTIPOLO City – Calvin “The Beast” Abueva delivered a masterclass performance in his much-anticipated return, erupting for a career-high 41 points to power the Titan Ultra Giant Risers to a thrilling 100-96 victory over the Meralco Bolts in their first-ever PBA appearance on Wednesday night at the Ynares Center.
Abueva, showing no signs of slowing down despite the years, carried the newly rebranded franchise — formerly NorthPort Batang Pier — to its maiden win in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup. He went 14-of-27 from the field while adding seven rebounds in a vintage display of energy and leadership that set the tone for Titan Ultra’s debut.
Joshua Munzon chipped in 14 points, while Cade Flores contributed 10 as the Giant Risers turned a 45-all deadlock at halftime into a 17-point third-quarter lead. Meralco tried to mount a comeback behind CJ Cansino’s fiery shooting, trimming the gap to 95-98 after a rare four-point play, but Munzon sealed the deal with two clutch free throws in the closing seconds.
Cansino paced the Bolts with 22 points, while Raymond Almazan added 16. Kier John Quinto and Brandon Bates scored 15 and 10, respectively, in a losing effort for Meralco.
Meanwhile, in the nightcap, the NLEX Road Warriors stunned defending champions San Miguel Beermen, 85-84, after rookie Jonnel Policarpio drained a go-ahead triple in the dying moments to complete a dramatic comeback.
“Sinabi lang ni coach Jong na laruin namin ‘yung laro namin and mag-stick kami sa play namin para makuha namin ‘yung panalo,” Policarpio said after finishing with 16 points—12 of which came in the second half.
Brandon Ramirez also had 16 markers, while Kevin Alas and JB Bahio tallied 13 and 12 points, respectively, as NLEX spoiled San Miguel’s opening day./PN
