Meralco PBA Players: Top Performers and Career Highlights You Need to Know

As someone who has followed the PBA for over a decade, I’ve always been fascinated by how certain players rise above the rest, especially in high-stakes moments. One of those unforgettable moments came during the recent semifinals, where Meralco’s resilience shone brightly. The win cut San Miguel’s series lead at 3-2 heading to Game 6 on Friday, and honestly, that game felt like a turning point—not just for the series, but for how we view Meralco’s roster. Over the years, I’ve watched this team evolve from underdogs to genuine contenders, and it’s the top performers who’ve made that journey compelling. Players like Chris Newsome and Raymond Almazan don’t just bring stats to the table; they bring heart, and in this piece, I’ll dive into their career highlights and why they matter. If you’re a basketball enthusiast or just curious about the PBA’s rising stars, stick around—this is for you.

Let’s start with Chris Newsome, a guy I’ve admired since his rookie year. Drafted in 2015, he quickly became Meralco’s backbone, averaging around 15.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in the 2022-2023 season. I remember one game where his clutch three-pointer sealed a win against Ginebra, and it wasn’t just luck—it was pure skill. Newsome’s versatility is what sets him apart; he can drive to the hoop, defend multiple positions, and lead fast breaks like a seasoned veteran. His career highlights include two PBA All-Star selections and a Finals MVP nod in 2021, which, in my opinion, was well-deserved given his consistency. But what really stands out is his leadership during that recent semifinal. When San Miguel seemed unstoppable, Newsome’s 28-point performance in Game 5 kept Meralco alive, cutting the series lead to 3-2. That’s the kind of grit that defines a top performer, and it’s why I rate him as one of the best guards in the league today.

Then there’s Raymond Almazan, the towering center who joined Meralco in 2019. At 6’8”, he’s a defensive anchor, but his offensive game has improved leaps and bounds. I’ve seen him dominate the paint with an average of 12.5 points and 9.1 rebounds last season, and his shot-blocking—around 1.8 per game—is a game-changer. Almazan’s career took off with Rain or Shine, where he won two championships, but his move to Meralco felt like a perfect fit. In the recent series against San Miguel, his presence in the key was crucial; he grabbed 14 rebounds in Game 5, helping secure that vital win. Some critics say he’s inconsistent, but I disagree—when the pressure’s on, Almazan delivers. His highlights include multiple PBA All-Defensive Team honors, and I’d argue he’s underrated in discussions about the league’s elite big men. Watching him evolve has been a pleasure, and I think he’s only getting better.

Another name that can’t be overlooked is Allein Maliksi, a scoring machine who’s been with Meralco since 2021. Maliksi’s journey is one of perseverance; he bounced around a few teams before finding his groove here. Last season, he averaged 13.8 points per game, and his three-point shooting—hovering near 38%—is a weapon Meralco relies on. I recall a game where he dropped 25 points against TNT, and his ability to create shots off the dribble is simply fun to watch. In the semifinals, his 20-point contribution in Game 5 was instrumental in narrowing San Miguel’s lead. Maliksi’s career highlights include a PBA championship with San Mig Coffee back in 2014, but what impresses me most is his resilience. He’s not the flashiest player, but he gets the job done, and in today’s fast-paced PBA, that’s invaluable.

Beyond individual stats, Meralco’s team dynamics play a huge role in their success. Coach Norman Black’s system emphasizes defense and ball movement, which suits these top performers perfectly. I’ve noticed how they feed off each other—Newsome’s drives open up shots for Maliksi, while Almazan’s rim protection allows guards to take risks. In that Game 5 win, it wasn’t just one player; it was a collective effort that cut San Miguel’s series lead to 3-2. From my perspective, this synergy is what makes Meralco a threat in any playoff scenario. They might not have the star power of some teams, but their chemistry is top-notch, and it’s why I often root for them in tight matchups. Looking at the numbers, Meralco has made the semifinals in three of the last five seasons, a testament to their growth.

In wrapping up, Meralco’s top performers like Newsome, Almazan, and Maliksi aren’t just statistics on a sheet—they’re the heart of a team that’s constantly defying expectations. Their career highlights speak volumes, but it’s their ability to step up in clutch moments, like in that pivotal Game 5, that truly sets them apart. As a longtime fan, I believe this squad has the potential to clinch a championship soon, especially if they maintain this momentum. So, if you’re following the PBA, keep an eye on these guys; they’re worth every bit of attention. Thanks for reading, and feel free to share your own thoughts—I’d love to hear who your favorite Meralco player is!