Meralco gives some spark to storm-weary Cebuanos

Sports

FROM rim-rattling dunks to long three-point bombs, the Cebuanos got a taste of a super quality basketball when the Meralco Bolts and the Macau Black Bears flew in for an East Asia Super League (EASL) match on Saturday, Nov. 15.

The Cebu Coliseum rocked throughout the 40-minute match with Meralco import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson delivering highlight reels with at least three gravity-defying dunks.

Meralco’s other import, the hulking Ismael Romeo, had his share of limelight as he tormented his defenders with power plays down low.

Though they trailed for the large part of the gane, the Black Bears did their part, staging a late rally that made the game more entertaining before eventually falling, 74-92

The Bolts secured a win that fanned their playoff hopes, but for them it wasn’t just about basketball.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson emphasized that they knew the purpose when they flew in.

The Bolts knew what they came for was bigger than basketball and for Hollis-Jefferson, it was mission accomplished as the team was able to give the Cebuanos something to cheer about after the province was hit by a series of calamities–an earthquake on Oct. 30 and a strong typhoon on Nov. 4.

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

Even after the match, Hollis-Jefferson, who finished with 34 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists, lingered and accommodated those who wanted to have selfies with him.

The Bolts were aware of the devastation caused by the calamities: lives were lost, belongings washed away, livelihood crumbled.

And for that, seeing the Cebuanos with smile on their faces were more than enough to inspire the Bolts.

“With everything going on it kind of blended really well for us to be able to play. We’re not just here to play for Meralco, to play for the PBA. but we are here to play for the country, for our countrymen and the people that go through everyday struggles,” said Chris Newsome.

Even before the match tipped off, the Bolts already made their presence felt in Cebu City’s relief efforts.

Meralco pledged P500,000 on top of the donations that its players pooled for the calamity victims. Proceeds of the match also went to the city’s relief drive.

The Bolts travelled back to Manila with a crucial win. But what made the trip more satisfying was they left something bigger than basketball.

“Having that kind of motivation made it a much different game than the usual PBA game. It was an honor to represent you all and play in front of you,” Newsome said.(CCM)