Seoul SK averted a meltdown on Wednesday evening, escaping Meralco, 81-80, to rise for a share of second in the 2023-24 East Asia Super League season at Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Up by as much as 12 points, 74-62, early in the final frame, the Bolts stormed back with a silent yet exhilarating rally to give the Knights a scare.
A three-pointer by Zach Lofton and three free throws by Chris Newsome cut Seoul SK’s lead down to three, 81-78, with 1:55 remaining.
Misses by Kim Sunhyung and Jameel Warney led to a Lofton layup to further slice into the lead.
However, with just six seconds left, Chris Banchero was able to touch the paint with a drive but his pass to Prince Ibeh was overcooked, resulting to the escape.
Seoul SK rose to a share of second with a 2-2 slate, tied with Ryukyu.
Meralco dropped to 1-3 with New Taipei remaining on top with a 2-0 record.
Warney was unstoppable for the Knights, finishing with 31 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and two steals.
An Youngjun also torched the Bolts, tallying 19 points on five triples.
Juan Gomez de Liano only played four minutes but got four points.
Not to be outdone by Warney, Lofton produced 32 points and seven rebounds for the Bolts.
Supporting him were Prince Ibeh and Chris Newsome, adding 13 points apiece. Ibeh also grabbed 11 boards.
Meralco will continue its homestand next week against New Taipei at the same Pasig venue. Seoul SK hosts New Taipei as well on the 31st.
