By Will Imperial
Meralco thwarted TNT’s aspirations for a seventh consecutive conference championship, securing the title as the new champions of the PBA 3×3.
Emerging triumphant in three legs of the Season 3 Third Conference, the Bolts solidified their coronation with a hard-fought 21-17 victory over the Triple Giga in the Monday night finale at Ayala Malls Glorietta.
Relying on Joseph Sedurifa and JJ Manlangit, the top-seeded Bolts finished strong with a 6-2 run, securing this breakthrough victory and bringing an end to the Triple Giga’s extended reign that began in the Third Conference of Season 1.
Sedurifa showcased his prowess with a game-high eight points, including back-to-back two-pointers, securing Meralco’s ascent to the throne at the expense of the powerhouse that relegated them to runner-up honors in the Grand Finals of the previous conference.
JJ Manlangit contributed seven points, while Joseph Batino added five, and Jeff Manday scored one for Patrick Fran’s squad. They went home with the grand prize of P750,000.
“Sobrang tagal na namin sa PBA 3×3, first time namin na-experience nito,” said Batino.
The Bolts faced challenges before earning a second opportunity at the conference title.
In the semifinals, Meralco encountered a 17-20 deficit against Blackwater but successfully reversed the situation with a 4-0 surge, concluded by Sedurifa’s two-point shot.
“Si Lord ang may gawa nito, hindi kami. Blackwater (semis game) pa lang, down kami ng three. Destiny siguro ito sa amin para manalo,” Sedurifa said.
The TNT team composed of Almond Vosotros (five points), Ping Exciminiano (four points), Gryann Mendoza (four points), and Chester Saldua (four points) secured the silver medal, marking their first time settling for second place in seven conference finals appearances. They earned P250,000.
On the other hand, Cavitex claimed third place and P100,000 after defeating the Bossing with a score of 22-19.
