Meralco’s Cliff Hodge promises to become a better ‘role model’ after returning from a one-game suspension

The Meralco Bolts extended their win streak to two games after beating the NLEX Road Warriors, 108–92, in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup on Sunday, May 25, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

The victory marked the return of veteran forward Cliff Hodge to Meralco’s starting roster after serving a one-game suspension for a wrestling-like foul on Magnolia Hotshots’ Zavier Lucero. Hodge showed no rust in his return, finishing with 12 points, five rebounds, and four assists.

The 37-year-old revealed after the game that the suspension made him reflect on his actions, promising to become a better role model.

“It’s great to be back. Of course, you never want to get suspended for any extracurricular activities. But I served my suspension, and it kind of let me reflect on being a better role model to everyone. I know I’ve got to control my emotions, and I tried my best today. I think I did a little bit better, so it’s good to come out a little improved,” Hodge said during the post-match press conference.

Notably, this was the first time Hodge has received a suspension in his 12-year PBA career, and he hopes it never happens again.

Here’s what went down between Cliff Hodge and Zavier Lucero in the 2:16 mark of the fourth quarter | @spinph

🎥: PBA, TV5, Cignal pic.twitter.com/SZTwLu1ZFs

— Reuben Terrado (@reubensports) May 14, 2025

“It was my first time being suspended, and I actually didn’t know that you couldn’t go to the game. I was going to attend, and they said, ‘No, you can’t.’ I was like, ‘Oh, okay.’ Well, I had to serve it. It was my first time getting suspended in my whole career—which is kind of crazy, 12 years in the league. But I hope it never happens again. That will definitely make me think twice about doing anything dirty or reckless. I’ll just try to stay solid and play good defense,” he added.

Meralco head coach Luigi Trillo revealed that Hodge had immediately apologized to Lucero after the incident, with the forward confirming that he also reached out via social media.

“I messaged him on Instagram. I just apologized personally. I told him how I felt—that it wasn’t anything personal, just something that happened. It wasn’t supposed to happen, and I told him it was my fault. I’m glad he didn’t get hurt, so it’s good,” Hodge concluded.

The Meralco Bolts are now on a two-game win streak, and Hodge will look to continue contributing as they aim to climb the Philippine Cup standings. The Bolts and Hodge will next be in action against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Friday, May 30, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

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