Meralco headed back to Manila Sunday, May 30, after completing a training bubble in Ilocos Norte that lasted for two weeks.
The Bolts posted a team photo outside of the Fort Ilocandia Resort in Laoag where they stayed after every practice session at the Centennial Arena.
“Basketball in the new normal is not easy. We all missed the game, the grind, and our fans,” the team said on its social media accounts. “The closed circuit training camp in Ilocos has been a chance for us to focus on our physical and mental growth.
“Today, we head home — stronger and more prepared for the return of the PBA,” the Bolts added.
Basketball in the new normal is not easy. We all missed the game, the grind, and our fans. The closed circuit training camp in Ilocos has been a chance for us to focus on our physical and mental growth. Today, we head home—stronger and more prepared for the return of the #PBA. pic.twitter.com/h5RCD2ry2K
— Meralco Bolts (@MeralcoBolts) May 30, 2021
Coach Norman Black’s wards were the first to be cleared by the PBA to train in areas under General Community Quarantine or Modified General Community Quarantine after completing necessary requirements.
Meralco was one of two teams which opted to accept the invitation of Ilocos Norte governor Matthew Manotoc to hold a training bubble up north.
TNT, the other team which also went to Laoag, is set to complete its own training bubble Monday, May 31.
The Laoag sojourn allowed the Bolts to familiarize themselves with new acquisition Mac Belo while giving last year’s Most Outstanding Rookie Aaron Black and Trevis Jackson a preview of what’s in store with both players expected to have bigger roles at the point guard position.