Iranian import gives Meralco much-needed boost in EASL

Sports

AN IRANIAN import gave the Meralco Bolts the spark they badly needed, making an instant impact in his debut as the team’s Asian reinforcement in the East Asia Super League (EASL).

Sina Vahedi, the star guard of the Iran national team, put in a solid all-around game when the Bolts nipped the Taoyuan Pilots, 85-76, over the weekend at the Capital Arena in Ilagan City.

Vahedi piled up 22 points, seven assists, and five rebounds as he helped the Bolts finally secure their first win after starting the tournament with back-to-back losses.

Included in that 0-2 start by Meralco was a 72-82 loss to the same Taoyuan squad.

Meralco’s three reinforcements actually played superb in the breakthrough win.

Puerto Rican import Ismael Romero collected 22 points and 14 rebounds while Rondae Hollis-Jefferson raked in 15 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists

Providing strong local support was Chris Newsome, who finished with 14 points and six assists. Taking over the spot vacated by ill-stricken Justin Brownlee, Ange marked his debut with three points and four rebounds.

With a 1-2 slate, the Bolts stayed at third place in Group B standings where the Pilots are the front-runners with two wins and a loss.(CCM)