Marvin Jones in as Meralco parts ways with Ismael Romero for PBA Commissioner’s Cup

The Meralco Bolts are heading into the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup with a new reinforcement, opting to bring in veteran big man Marvin Jones as their import.

The decision effectively ends the team’s plans to field Ismael Romero in the midseason tournament, which opens on March 11. The move also clarified why Meralco’s import slot remained vacant when the league released its official team lineups last Friday.

Initially, Romero was expected to continue his partnership with the Bolts after previously suiting up for the club during the 2025–26 campaign in the East Asia Super League. His familiarity with the system made him an early choice for the Commissioner’s Cup.

However, circumstances changed following an incident during the Dubai International Basketball Championship earlier this year. While playing for Al Ahli Tripoli against the Zamboanga Valientes, Romero drew controversy after kicking former PBA winger Nick Demusis.

Meralco team manager Paolo Trillo confirmed the team’s decision during the radio program Power & Play.

“We just felt it was time for him and for us not to line him up this conference,” said Trillo.

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A GIANT BOOST

The Meralco Bolts welcome FIBA EuroCup champion Marvin Jones as their new reinforcement, stepping in for Ismael Romero ahead of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.#PBA50 #PBA50LID pic.twitter.com/fCKFmbV6Py

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) March 7, 2026

Instead, the Bolts are banking on Jones’ size and defensive presence as they prepare for the grueling midseason tournament. Standing at 7 feet, the Chicago-born center is known for his rim protection and international experience.

Jones recently captured the FIBA Europe Cup title with Spanish club Bilbao Basket, helping the team defeat Greece’s PAOK mateco in the championship round. 

Meralco believes Jones’ defensive ability will complement a core group led by Chris Newsome, Bong Quinto, and rising guard CJ Cansino as the team looks to make a strong push in the conference.

The Bolts will open their campaign in the Commissioner’s Cup on March 18 against the Converge FiberXers at the Ynares Center Antipolo.

For Meralco, the arrival of Jones signals a reset heading into the new conference — one that emphasizes defensive presence and veteran stability as the team chases another deep playoff run in PBA Season 50.

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