Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 16, 2024 3:20 pm GMT
In a surprising turn of events, San Miguel Beermen’s star shooting guard Terrence Romeo was unable to play in the opening match of the East Asia Super League (EASL) Season 2 due to issues with his passport. This unexpected absence became a critical factor in the team’s 87-81 loss to the Suwon KT Sonicboom at the Mall of Asia Arena. The three-time PBA scoring champion, despite being present on the bench, could not contribute on the court, raising questions about the team’s readiness for the highly competitive league.
Romeo’s DNP Situation
Romeo’s situation stems from a late passport submission, as explained by San Miguel’s head coach Jorge Gallent. He stated, “I think he had a problem with his passport. I think one of the reasons yun kasi I think he submitted his passport just today. But I’m not sure.” This administrative hiccup is a reminder of the regulations governing the EASL, where teams must submit player passports to participate.
The Beermen, known for their robust roster, included Romeo among the 12 players for their opening game but had to adjust quickly without his explosive scoring ability. Alongside Romeo, notable players like CJ Perez, June Mar Fajardo, and Marcio Lassiter also made the roster. However, other key players such as Vic Manuel and Jeron Teng did not make the cut for this matchup. Import players EJ Anosike and Quincy Miller were also part of the lineup.
Meralco’s Victory Over Macau
While San Miguel experienced a setback, the Meralco Bolts showcased a strong performance in their opener against the Macau Black Bears, winning 97-85. This victory alleviated some discomfort from their recent loss in the PBA Governors’ Cup, where they were swept in the quarterfinals by Barangay Ginebra. Meralco’s Chris Newsome expressed relief in bouncing back quickly, saying, “It’s a blessing for us to have the opportunity to bounce back not even three days later from the quarterfinal loss.”
Key Players in Meralco’s Success
- Chris Newsome led the Bolts with 18 points and 6 rebounds.
- Allen Durham contributed a double-double, scoring 17 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.
- DJ Kennedy also had a strong game with a statline of 17 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists.
Meralco’s victory not only increased their confidence but also matched their total wins from the previous season of the EASL. They now look forward to their upcoming road game against Japan’s Ryukyu Golden Kings on October 16 before hosting Korea’s Busan KCC Egis on November 13.
Looking Ahead
As the EASL continues, both teams will aim to refine their strategies. For San Miguel, addressing Romeo’s passport issue is crucial to avoid further complications. His scoring prowess is invaluable, and the Beermen will need him to stay competitive in the league. Meanwhile, Meralco must maintain their momentum and continue building on their recent success.
The East Asia Super League is not just about regional pride; it represents a significant opportunity for teams to challenge themselves against top competition. Both Meralco and San Miguel will aim to represent the Philippine Basketball Association with pride and determination. As they navigate through this season, fans will keep a close eye on how each team adapts and strives for success.
San Miguel is having a tough time without Romeo, but Meralco has bounced back with a strong win, showing how tough they are after facing some challenges. The next games in the EASL are going to be exciting, giving teams a chance to show off their skills in front of more fans. This is just the beginning of the season, and there’s a lot more fun basketball ahead!
