PBA: Ginebra gets back on track with win over depleted Meralco

Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings’ RJ Abarrientos during a game vs Meralco Bolts in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines–Barangay Ginebra returned to the win column in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup after defeating a depleted Meralco squad, 84-75, at Mall of Asia Arena on Friday night.

The Gin Kings took advantage of a shorthanded Bolts side missing Bong Quinto, CJ Cansino, Jason Brickman and Raymond Almazan to improve to 2-2 in Group B after their previous loss to Rain or Shine.

“We just trusted our offensive game plan. We trusted each other and we all got momentum so that’s what’s most important for us,” Ginebra guard RJ Abarrientos said.

“Not having Scottie (Thompson) and JB (Justin Brownlee) is such a big loss for us but we’re still whole. We just need to play our roles because nobody can fill both of their shoes. We just need to step up.”

Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings’ Riley Grigsby during a game vs Meralco Bolts in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

The Gin Kings took control early against the Bolts, opening an 18-10 lead after the first quarter and never looked back.

Abarrientos topscored for Ginebra with 27 points, three rebounds, three assists and a steal. Import Riley Grigsby finished just a rebound shy of a double-double with 25 points and nine boards.

Antonio Hester dominated for the Bolts with a double-double of 24 points and 18 rebounds in the defeat. Chris Banchero, meanwhile, topped all Meralco locals with 15 points.

The win temporarily lifted Ginebra to third place, while Meralco dropped into a tie for fourth with Blackwater at 2-3.