Meralco Bolts secured a thrilling 81-80 victory over South Korea’s Busan KCC Egis in the East Asia Super League (EASL) at Philsports Arena in Pasig City. New import Akil Mitchell proved to be the hero, sinking a critical free throw with six seconds left to complete Meralco’s comeback.
Mitchell, brought in for the upcoming PBA Commissioner’s Cup, delivered a powerhouse performance, posting 33 points and 22 rebounds. His marginal free throw came after a foul was called during a loose ball, as Busan’s Heo Ung missed a potential game-winning shot.
Bong Quinto helped push Meralco toward victory by knocking down a crucial three-pointer to tie the game, setting up the tense final moments. Although Mitchell split his free throws, Busan failed to convert a last-second three-pointer, securing Meralco’s second win in Group B and surpassing their previous EASL season’s single win.
With this win, Meralco now stands at 2-1, trailing only Japan’s undefeated Ryukyu Golden Kings (2-0) and ahead of the Macau Black Bears (2-2). DJ Kennedy contributed 14 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, while Gilas Pilipinas’ Ange Kouame added eight points and six rebounds.
Earlier in the EASL doubleheader, San Miguel Beer suffered a tough loss against Taiwan’s Taoyuan Pilots, putting more pressure on Meralco to deliver for Philippine basketball.