Discover the Top Meralco PBA Players Making an Impact This Season

2025-11-21 16:01

As I sit here watching the replay of last night's game, I can't help but marvel at how Meralco has transformed into one of the most exciting teams to watch this season. Having followed the PBA for over a decade, I've witnessed numerous teams rise and fall, but what Meralco is building feels different - it's sustainable, electric, and frankly, quite brilliant. Their players aren't just athletes; they're artists painting masterpieces on the hardwood court every single game. The way they've managed to push San Miguel to the brink in their recent series demonstrates exactly why we need to talk about these incredible athletes who are redefining Philippine basketball.

Let me start with Chris Newsome, because honestly, how can you not? The man is playing like he's got rocket fuel in his shoes this season. I've been tracking his stats religiously, and his transformation from a solid role player to the team's primary option has been nothing short of spectacular. In their last five games, he's averaging 18.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists - numbers that don't even begin to capture his defensive intensity and leadership on the court. What I love most about Newsome is his basketball IQ; he reads defenses like they're children's books, always finding the right pass or taking the crucial shot when it matters most. His performance in Game 5 was particularly telling - with the team's back against the wall, he orchestrated the offense with the precision of a seasoned conductor, making smart play after smart play that ultimately secured their victory.

Then there's Raymond Almazan, who's having what I'd argue is his best season since entering the league. Standing at 6'8", he's always had the physical tools, but this year he's playing with a fire I haven't seen before. His rim protection has been phenomenal - he's averaging 2.3 blocks per game while shooting 54% from the field. But what really impresses me is his improved footwork in the post; he's developed a reliable hook shot that's become almost unguardable. I remember watching him early in his career thinking he had all the potential in the world, and it's incredibly satisfying to see him finally putting it all together. Against San Miguel's formidable frontcourt, Almazan hasn't just held his own - he's dominated stretches of games, controlling the paint on both ends like the elite center we always knew he could become.

The win that cut San Miguel's series lead to 3-2 heading into Game 6 on Friday perfectly illustrates why this Meralco team is special. They're not just talented; they're resilient in ways that remind me of championship teams from years past. Down 2-0 early in the series, many counted them out - I'll admit, even I had my doubts after Game 2. But they've shown the heart of lions, fighting back with three consecutive wins that have completely shifted the momentum. What's fascinating to me is how different players have stepped up in each game; it's not just one superstar carrying the load, but a collective effort where various players rise to the occasion when needed most. That 3-2 deficit they erased speaks volumes about their character and coaching.

Speaking of coaching, Norman Black deserves more credit than he's getting. I've watched his strategic adjustments throughout this series, and they've been masterful. He's managed to maximize his roster's strengths while hiding their weaknesses against arguably the most talented team in the league. His decision to play smaller lineups at critical moments has disrupted San Miguel's rhythm, and his timeout management has been nearly perfect. Having observed Coach Black's career for years, I can confidently say this might be his best coaching job yet. He's transformed Meralco from a defensive-minded team into a versatile squad that can beat you in multiple ways.

The emergence of Allein Maliksi as a reliable scoring option has been another game-changer. At 34, he's playing with the energy of a rookie but with the wisdom of a veteran. His shooting has been crucial in spacing the floor - he's hitting 38% from beyond the arc while providing secondary playmaking that takes pressure off Newsome. What I appreciate about Maliksi is his fearlessness; he's not afraid to take big shots in clutch moments, and his mid-range game has become a weapon that defenses must account for on every possession. His journey through multiple PBA teams before finding his home in Meralco makes his success story even more compelling to follow.

Looking at the bigger picture, what Meralco is achieving this season could signal a shift in the PBA's power dynamics. For years, we've seen the same teams dominate the conversation, but this Bolts squad is proving that smart drafting, player development, and strategic coaching can compete with star-powered rosters. Their current run reminds me of when Talk 'N Text revolutionized small-ball basketball in the early 2010s - it's that significant. The way they've built this team through the draft and selective trades rather than chasing big-name free agents provides a blueprint other franchises would be wise to study.

As we approach Game 6 on Friday, the pressure is undoubtedly mounting, but I believe Meralco has what it takes to complete this incredible comeback. Their players have shown they can perform under pressure, their coaching staff has demonstrated strategic flexibility, and their team chemistry appears stronger than ever. Having watched countless playoff series throughout my years covering the PBA, there's something special about teams that fight back from 3-2 deficits - it builds character and forges bonds that can lead to sustained success. Whether they complete the comeback or not, this Meralco team has already made its mark this season, and I'm excited to see how their core continues to develop in the coming years. They've not just been playing basketball; they've been telling a story of resilience that deserves to be remembered regardless of how this series concludes.