The Meralco Bolts wrapped up their PBA Philippine Cup elimination round on a high note before representing the Philippines internationally in Dubai.

In a pivotal clash Friday night, May 30,  at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the Bolts pulled away late for an 82-73 victory over Barangay Ginebra, clinching an outright berth in the playoffs with a 6-5 record.

A late 11-2 run sparked by Cliff Hodge, Bong Quinto, Chris Banchero, and Chris Newsome turned a 71-all deadlock into a decisive win. That finishing kick not only secured the Bolts a playoff ticket but also marked their third straight victory heading into the postseason.

Balanced team effort keys Meralco surge

Coach Luigi Trillo utilized a deep rotation, with 10 players contributing on the scoreboard. Newsome led the charge with 15 points, Banchero added 14, Hodge chipped in 11, and Quinto and CJ Cansino tallied 10 apiece.

The game was tight through the first three quarters, tied at 17 after one and again at 37 at halftime. Meralco pulled ahead in the third, but Ginebra clawed back to even the score with four minutes left.

From there, the Kings stalled offensively, going scoreless from the field while the Bolts executed a composed finishing stretch.

Next stop: Dubai for Meralco

With their playoff ticket secured, the Bolts now turn their focus to the Basketball Champions League Asia set for June 9-15 in Dubai. Their domestic campaign remains intact, and the timing of the international stint allows for strategic momentum heading into the PBA playoffs.

Ginebra, meanwhile, dropped to 5-3 and remains in contention for one of the remaining quarterfinal slots. The Kings face a quick turnaround with a Manila Clasico showdown against Magnolia up next, followed by crucial games against TNT and Rain or Shine.