Meralco Bolts blast debuting Black Bears in refurbished Cebu Coliseum

THE Meralco Bolts beat the debuting Macau Black Bears, 92-74, in an electrifying win for Cebuanos in the East Asia Super League (EASL) on Saturday night at the refurbished Cebu Coliseum.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (RHJ) delivered 35 points, 11 rebounds and five assists in a stirring performance highlighted by three thunderous dunks as the charged-up Bolts roared to their second straight victory off a 0-2 start in Group B.

Dubbed “Basketball for Cebu,” the match served as the EASL’s charity event, with all proceeds from the night going toward relief efforts for victims of the recent earthquakes and flooding in Cebu.

The Bolts’ players and management themselves are donating P500,000 for the cause.

“To be here and be able to play in front of our fans, it’s amazing, there’s nothing like it. We appreciate the support of fans here in Cebu. We understand what they’re going through and we’re just happy we could bring some excitement,” said RHJ.

“At the end of the day, some things are out of our control as humans but I hope it inspires them. I hope it leaves hope. I hope they keep fighting, keep supporting us and we’ll continue to support them.”

RHJ’s partner Ismail Romero was again a beast in the middle with 25 markers and 28 boards and played a significant role in the followup to Meralco’s previous 82-72 home triumph over erstwhile unbeaten Taoyuan Pilots over in Ilagan City, Isabela.

Chris Banchero led the Bolts’ locals with 12 points, three rebounds, and three dimes as Asian reinforcement Sina Vahedi produced 10 points, three rebounds, and four assists. — Olmin Leyba