The Meralco Bolts pulled off a heart-stopping comeback, erasing a 15-point deficit to steal a 105-104 win over NorthPort in the PBA Philippine Cup on Friday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig. Bong Quinto delivered the final blow with a game-winning drive with just two seconds remaining.

NorthPort fumbled the victory after missing five crucial free throws in the final minute, including two by Sidney Onwubere and two more by Jio Jalalon that left the door wide open. The loss extended the Batang Pier’s skid to four games, while Meralco improved to 3-3.

Despite trailing almost the entire game, the Bolts never gave in. They finally took the lead in the final possession with Quinto showing nerves of steel to sink the dagger layup. Wil Navarro had a chance to win it at the buzzer but his jumper missed, sealing NorthPort’s collapse.

Chris Newsome led the Bolts with 24 points, Chris Banchero added 23, and Cliff Hodge contributed 18 points and 14 rebounds before fouling out. The trio powered Meralco’s rally from 37-52 down midway through the contest.

Though Quinto struggled from the field with 6-of-12 shooting, he finished with 17 points, nine rebounds, and two assists, including the most important basket of the night. His clutch heroics shattered NorthPort’s hopes of ending a three-game losing streak.

NorthPort came out strong with five players scoring in double figures despite Arvin Tolentino’s absence due to injury. Joshua Munzon led the charge, helping the Batang Pier take early control and maintain it until the final seconds.

After a strong opening win against Terrafirma, NorthPort seemed poised for a second victory. However, their 1-of-6 free throw performance in the last minute doomed their chances, turning what should have been a closeout into a heartbreak.

With 12 seconds left and NorthPort ahead 104-101, Onwubere missed two free throws. Banchero answered with a quick basket, and Jalalon was sent to the line with 8.4 seconds left — only to miss both and give Meralco one last shot.

The Bolts didn’t waste it. Quinto drove to the rim, finished strong, and completed the stunning comeback.