MANILA, Philippines – Chris Newsome’s path to winning his first PBA championship with Meralco is evidence of his tenacity and commitment. Newsome added, “You know, it’s been a crazy ride from that draft day until now. They (the Bolts) believed in me since they drafted me back in 2015.” as he considered his incredible journey.

Newsome expressed his thankfulness with obvious relief and gladness. “I’m just happy that I was able to fulfill my commitment to bring Meralco its first championship,” he said. This victory was the product of years of arduous labor and unflinching faith in the abilities of his team; it did not come easily.

At the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday night, the Bolts defeated the San Miguel Beermen 80-78 to seal their historic triumph in the Philippine Cup finals. Newsome played a crucial role in the clutch. With just 1.3 seconds left, he made the first championship trophy in the franchise’s history with a fade-away jumper. This was the last play in a game where every defensive play, every play, every play counted.

It was a high-stakes game, and Newsome led brilliantly. In the pivotal fourth quarter, he scored nine of his team-high fifteen points, showcasing his resilience. His contributions enabled the Bolts to secure their position in PBA history by helping them win the best-of-seven series 4-2.

The Bolts’ triumph is a tale of perseverance and teamwork more than it is of a single game. Nine years ago, the club that selected Newsome fourth overall watched him develop into a capable leader who could guide them through the most trying times. His path is similar to the team’s: it starts with failures and near-misses and ends with victory.

For Newsome, winning this title is the realization of a lifelong dream to support his club and its supporters. It is the result of years of arduous effort, tenacity, and the steadfast conviction that the Bolts will succeed eventually. The title represents an important turning point for the Meralco squad and an example of what perseverance, hard work, and collaboration can accomplish.

June Mar Fajardo knotted the game at 78 with a clutch three-pointer following a hiccupped San Miguel play just before his clutch shot.

Despite being taken aback by what he called a “great shot by Abai,” 33-year-old Newsome maintained his calm and didn’t give up.

“It (San Miguel) kept them alive. But at that point, anything can happen,” Newsome said. There is still time left, and the only thought I have is that we have a chance. You have two seconds to get a look off; all you need to do is find a location and give yourself a chance to make the shot.

Before the Bolts saw Fajardo miss a potentially game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer to ultimately win their coveted championship, Newsome had just done that.

“It feels like a dream. But at the same time, I put the work on this, so I know I deserved this. I know all the guys in that locked room deserved this as well. I see them come to work every single day and it’s nice to finally get that breakthrough championship for Meralco,” said the MVP of the Finals. “

Following a bungled San Miguel play, June Mar Fajardo knotted the game at 78 with a crucial three-pointer.

Chris Newsome, 33, was somewhat taken aback by what he described as a “great shot by Abai,” but he stayed controlled and focused. Meralco’s ultimate triumph was greatly aided by Newsome’s composure under duress, which demonstrated his fortitude and leadership on the floor.