LOST in the moment of Meralco's back-to-back setbacks to end the PBA Philippine Cup eliminations was the first career achievement award for veteran big man Raymund Almazan.
The 35-year-old Almazan reached his 1,000th career offensive rebound during the Bolts' 100-93 win over deposed champion San Miguel Beermen in their Jan. 18 showdown in Candon, Ilocos Sur.
It was the first career achievement award in 11 seasons of playing for Almazan in Asia's pioneering pro league.
The center out of Letran was formally awarded his specially-crafted plaque during halftime of the Meralco-Barangay Ginebra game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum by Commissioner Willie Marcial, who was joined during the brief ceremony by Meralco team governor Atty. Bill Pamintuan, San Miguel Corp. Sports Director Alfrancis Chua and Almazan's son Rayl Jacob.
Almazan achieved the feat when he rebounded a missed basket by Chris Banchero at the 6:30 mark of the fourth quarter.
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He became the 55th player in PBA history to accomplish the record and 53rd among local players.
The native of Orion, Bataan was the seventh active player to reach the mark and the only third one to attain the feat in a Meralco uniform.
Too bad, the Bolts lost back-to-back games after Almazan completed his career achievement award, dropping a 91-87 setback against Barangay Ginebra and a 129-92 demolition at the hands of Magnolia Hotshots.
The Bolts played without import Akil Mitchell (Back spasm) on both losses.
Nonetheless, Meralco still makes it to the quarterfinals as the fifth seeded team to arrange a best-of-three series against no. 4 Barangay Ginebra. (RG)
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