CJ Perez scored a career-high 34 points while Marcio Lassiter hit a memorable three-pointer, helping the San Miguel Beermen score a thrilling 95-94 victory over the Meralco Bolts in Game 2 of the 48th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup finals at the Araneta Coliseum on Friday.
Lassiter’s crucial three-pointer tied the best-of-seven series at 1-1 and solidified his status as one of the league’s top shooters.
His shot, which came with 13.2 seconds remaining, was his only three-pointer of the game but elevated his career total to 1,229, making it the third highest in PBA history behind Jimmy Alapag (1,250) and Allan Caidic (1,242).
“CJ and Marcio were open in the same spots. They had very good shots for us. For CJ to bring it (deficit) down to one, and for Marcio to give the victory today,” said Beermen coach Jorge Gallent.
The game was nearly lost for the Beermen when Perez missed two free throws with just three seconds left on the clock. However, the Bolts failed to capitalize as Bong Quinto turned the ball over in the final moments, sealing their fate.
Cliff Hodge led the Bolts with 25 points but was held to just two points in the final period. Chris Banchero stepped up with six of his 16 points in the closing minutes, keeping the Bolts competitive. Banchero’s free throw with 20.2 seconds left gave the Bolts a 94-92 lead, setting the stage for Lassiter’s game-winning shot.
Despite the late-game drama, Perez’s outstanding performance and Lassiter’s clutch shooting ensured the Beermen emerged victorious. The Bolts will look to bounce back in Game 3 on Sunday.
