Meralco's Newsome named PBA Player of the Week

MANILA, Philippines -- Athletic wingman Chris Newsome is in playoff mode as of late as evidenced in his last two games, which saw him churn out all-around numbers to help the Meralco Bolts seal the top seed in the PBA Governors’ Cup playoffs.

 

Knowing the importance of the Bolts’ last 2 games, the 6-foot-2 Newsome revved up his performance after averaging 21 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 1.0 steal that enabled Meralco to beat GlobalPort and grand slam-seeking San Miguel Beer, respectively, en route to finishing the elims with a tournament-best 9-2 record.

 

The 2016 PBA Rookie of the Year came out with a glittering output last Friday, firing 28 points, hauling down 7 rebounds and issuing 5 assists to lead Meralco to a 100-93 win.

 

Two days later, Newsome shot 7-of-10 from the floor en route to 14 points, while adding 6 assists and 4 rebounds as Meralco stunned San Miguel in come-from-behind fashion, 104-101.

 

The 27-year-old Newsome’s effort earned him the PBA Press Corps Player of the Week for the period of Sept. 18-24, besting the likes of Star veteran guards Mark Barroca and PJ Simon, along with Rain or Shine’s Raymond Almazan, Maverick Ahanmisi and Don Trollano.

 

The Bolts, enjoying a twice-to-beat edge, only need to win once on Tuesday when they clash with No. 8 seed Blackwater Elite to advance to the semifinals.