Chris Newsome buries game-winner as Meralco deals first loss to Magnolia

Chris Newsome buried a game-winner at the buzzer to help the Meralco Bolts stun the erstwhile unbeaten Magnolia Hotshots, 95-94, in the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup on Wednesday in Bacolor, Pampanga.

The thrilling victory brought the Bolts to 5-1 win-loss card while the Hotshots dropped to 4-1.

Magnolia looked like it would walk away with the win after leading by as many as 13 points in the fourth quarter. However, the Bolts staged a late comeback and cut the lead to just one point, 93-94, with 25 seconds remaining.

Mark Barroca then hit a triple but after thorough review by the game officials, it was ruled not counted due to 24-second violation.

With 4.3 seconds left on the clock, Meralco got the ball to Newsome who found an open lane for a layup just before time expired.

???? Awesome NEWSOME FTW!!!

Meralco snatches the victory, 95-94. #PBAiTuloyAngLaban pic.twitter.com/BPCroJWiMz

— PBA (@pbaconnect) September 1, 2021

The former Ateneo standout finished with 14 points and added two rebounds and four assists to his statline while Mac Belo carved out a team-high 22 markers to go with six rebounds. Cliff Hodge chipped in 18 points.

Paul Lee lifted Magnolia with 21 points while Calvin Abueva tossed in 18. Jio Jalalon contributed 12 markers while Ian Sangalang added 10.

—MGP, GMA News