Victolero slams non-call on shot-clock violation

Meralco’s series-tying win over Magnolia Pambansang Manok in the PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals didn’t end without controversy after officials apparently missed a 24-second violation late in Game 2 held Friday, March 25 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Bolts were holding an 80-75 lead with less than 30 seconds to go when import Tony Bishop attempted a long two-pointer from the right elbow that looked like it had not hit the rim as the shot clock was winding down.

But the play continued and Meralco’s Aaron Black grabbed the offensive rebound to keep the possession, much to the chagrin of Magnolia coach Chito Victolero.

Coach Norman Black of Meralco, however, said he was told by one of the officials that it was the correct call.

“We’ll one referee said it hit the rim,” Meralco coach Norman Black said after the game.

Victolero’s frustration was echoed by fans on social media, saying that Magnolia was denied another chance to close the gap despite time not on its side.

Hotshots guard Jio Jalalon eventually fouled Black with 9.4 seconds left, the latter splitting his two charities to secure the final count and a 1-1 tie in the best-of-five affair.

The non-call capped off a dragged-out fourth quarter that saw both teams score just 15 points apiece on a combined 8-of-34 shooting.