Newsome praises Bong Quinto after Meralco win: ‘Kid has improved so much’

Bong Quinto received the ball from the left elbow then charged against three defenders like a bull for the most important basket of Friday’s match, May 9.

 That shot against Sidney Onwubere, Cade Flores and James Kwekuteye turned out to be the game-winner as Meralco ended its misery against NorthPort in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

 The Bolts thus put their three-game tailspin to a screeching halt to hike their record to 3-3.

[RELATED STORY: Meralco rediscovers spark, nips NorthPort in PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup]

Quinto wound up with 17 points, nine rebounds and two assists.

 Chris Newsome, the undisputed face of the franchise, could not help but marvel at the “mature” player Quinto has become.

 “I’m really happy for Bong for stepping up today in that big moment. The kid has improved so much from his first year,” said Newsome, who was later recognized as the Player of the Game with his 24 points, two rebounds, two assists and three steals.

 “For him to have that composure, and for him to start closing out games, he’s got a bright future ahead of him. I think he’s maturing into his prime right now.”

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 Also stepping up was Chris Banchero, who submitted 23 points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Cliff Hodge posted 18 points, 14 rebounds, five assists and a block.

 “I’m just proud,” said Meralco coach Luigi Trillo, referring to Newsome.

 “Led by our captain here — he showed a lot of composure.”

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 Meanwhile, Joshua Munzon saw his stellar 36-point outing go for naught as the Batang Pier nosedived to their fourth straight loss for a 1-4 card.

 He also had six rebounds and three assists.

 William Navarro had 14 points and 12 rebounds.

 Jio Jalalon added 10 points while also botching two crucial free throws in the dying seconds, which proved costly for the Batang Pier.

Meralco vs NorthPort Scores:

 MERALCO 105 – Newsome 24, Banchero 23, Hodge 18, Quinto 17, Black 14, Cansino 3, Bates 2, Jose 2, Almazan 0, Pasaol 0, Caram 0, Torres 0.

 NORTHPORT 104 – Munzon 36, Navarro 14, Jalalon 11, Kwekuteye 10, Flores 10, Nelle 7, Onwubere 7, Cuntapay 6, Bulanadi 3, Nava 0, Taha 0.

 Quarterscores: 21-30, 42-54, 74-81, 105-104.