The Meralco Bolts were dealt a devastating 81-80 defeat by the visiting Seoul SK Knights in the East Asia Super League (EASL) on Wednesday night, December 27. The game took place at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
Jameel Warney played a crucial role in the victory for the SK Knights, contributing 31 points, seven rebounds, and six assists while playing the entire 40 minutes. Meanwhile, Filipino import Juan Gomez de Liaño scored four points in just four minutes of play in the first half.
The win improved the Knights’ record to 2-2 in Group B standings, while the Bolts dropped to 1-3, putting their Final Four aspirations in jeopardy.
Despite coming off a significant victory against Japan’s reigning champion Ryukyu Golden Kings, Meralco was unable to maintain the momentum on their home court. They made a spirited effort to come back from a 74-62 deficit but ultimately fell short due to a last-second turnover.
Zach Lofton led the Bolts in the losing effort, contributing 32 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. Prince Ibeh and Chris Newsome also made significant contributions, each scoring 13 points.
The Bolts now look to bounce back in their next game on January 3 against the top-seeded New Taipei Kings at the same venue.
