Despite being deep in their 2025 PBA Philippine Cup campaign, the Meralco Bolts are set to take on an even bigger challenge this June — representing the Philippines in the upcoming Basketball Champions League Asia (BCLA), scheduled from June 9 to 15.
PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial confirmed on Monday that Meralco has been chosen to represent both the league and the country in the prestigious FIBA-sanctioned tournament. The decision was made in coordination with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), Meralco team governor Atty. Bill Pamintuan, and team manager Paolo Trillo, recognizing the Bolts as the current Philippine Cup champions.
While the opportunity is a huge honor, Meralco head coach Luigi Trillo admitted in an exclusive interview with DZRHTV that the timing poses several challenges, especially as it overlaps with the ongoing All-Filipino conference.
“It’s an opportunity for sure, but the timing couldn’t have been worse,” Trillo said. “We’re in the middle of the All-Filipino Cup.“
One of the immediate hurdles is adjusting to the international game’s officiating style, which Trillo noted is very different from what they are used to in the PBA.
“PBA calls are very different from FIBA-sanctioned tournaments and the EASL,” he pointed out.
In addition, the Bolts will have to integrate two new imports into their lineup — with no practice games yet under their belt.
“[We will be] getting two new imports to mesh in without any practice games,” Trillo said.
Another concern is ensuring that all players meet the eligibility requirements for the tournament, a task that the coaching and management staff are now working to address.
“We have to check eligibility of players,” Trillo added.
Despite the tight schedule and logistical hurdles, the Meralco camp remains optimistic and motivated.
“The team is excited but it involves a lot of sacrifice, scheduling. Having two ongoing tournaments can put us off too,” Trillo assured. “That’s Meralco basketball.”
This isn’t the first time the Bolts are carrying the Philippine flag in an international competition. They previously competed in back-to-back editions of the East Asia Super League (EASL), giving them some experience on the global stage.
