'Bionic Man' Leads Bolts to Epic Comeback Win vs. Tropang Giga | PBA Governors' Cup 2023

Cliff Hodge, Meralco’s forward, showed amazing tenacity and grit in the face of adversity in the last game of the PBA Governors’ Cup Final Four between Meralco and TNT Tropang Giga. Hodge swiftly got back on his feet after taking a hard fall late in the regulation play that caused his head to bounce off the floor, and he continued to battle the Tropang Giga. His perseverance paid off in overtime, as he helped Meralco defeat their opponents 124-117.

Coach Norman Black lauded Hodge, dubbing him “the Bionic Man” for his exceptional ability to recover after a violent fall. Despite the tumble, Hodge’s power and toughness were on full show in this game, as he scored 15 points and collected nine rebounds.

Hodge’s contributions were critical in tying the series at one game apiece, setting up a pivotal Game 3 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday. With both sides vying for a 2-1 lead in the best-of-five series, it promises to be an exciting game.

Together with Hodge, Aaron Black and KJ McDaniels had great games for Meralco, with Black scoring 28 points and collecting ten rebounds and McDaniels scoring 39 points and getting 20 rebounds. Allein Maliksi and Bong Quinto both contributed 11 points to the victory.

TNT Tropang Giga played well despite the loss, with Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Mikey Williams combining for 56 points. Hollis-Jefferson almost had a triple-double with 15 rebounds and nine assists, but his clutch free throws harmed his team’s chances of winning.

Nevertheless, it was a hard-fought and thrilling game between two great teams, with Meralco emerging victorious due to their perseverance and drive.

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