MANILA, Philippines — Meralco opened the brand new year with an 88-83 escape act against foreign squad Eastern as the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup resumed on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Import Akil Mitchell delivered an all-around effort of 31 points, 14 rebounds, five assists, and seven steals to help the Bolts snap a two-game losing skid.
Bong Quinto was the only other double figure scorer for Meralco with 16 points.
Chris Newsome and Aaron Black had nine points and five rebounds each for Meralco.
Meralco moved up to 4-2 overall, while Eastern absorbed just its third loss in nine games.
Chris McLaughlin led Eastern with 28 points, 18 rebounds and four blocks.
Kobey Lam added 16 points, six rebounds and seven assists, while Steven Guinchard had 13.-
