Bolts feel blessed to have Bishop around

Meralco is set to unleash some fresh ammo as it tries to break out of the stranglehold of its three-time conqueror in their coming showdown for the PBA Governors’ Cup crown and score a franchise milestone.

For starters, Panamanian sniper Tony Bishop leads the Bolts’ charge this time against Ginebra’s resident import Justin Brownlee, who had been victorious in the 2016, 2017 and 2019 faceoff versus the efficient Allen Durham.

Bishop, taking over the spot of the unavailable Durham, proved he’s up to the task and helped Meralco overcome adversity all conference long en route to another date with the Gin Kings.

“Biggest difference between Allen Durham and Tony is Tony’s more of a perimeter import than a power player inside. He’s more of an outside shooter so we try to set our offense based on his ability to score the basket from the outside,” said coach Norman Black while also giving credit to Bishop’s hustle plays on defense and rebounding skills.

Though relieved that Durham isn’t on the opposite end for Ginebra-Meralco Part 4, Brownlee doesn’t expect it to be easy against Bishop.

“You can say I’m relieved Durham isn’t here. He’s a tough competitor; he always produces for his team. But Bishop is just good as well. He’s proven that the whole conference. So I’m expecting a tough battle,” said Brownlee.

Then there’s Meralco’s mid-tournament free agent acquisition Chris Banchero – if he’s good to go for the best-of-seven finale after missing the semis tailend due to injury. Banchero was instrumental in giving Meralco a 2-1 cushion in the semis duel with the Hotshots.