Jason Brickman begins PBA chapter after quiet Meralco debut

Jason Brickman’s long-awaited PBA arrival came without fireworks — just a short stint, a quick lesson, and the start of what Meralco hopes will be a steady evolution.

In an 88-79 loss to Japan’s Ryukyu Golden Kings to close out the EASL Home and Away Season 3 group stage at Smart Araneta Coliseum, Brickman finally checked into a game wearing a Meralco jersey. The moment arrived at the 6:14 mark of the first quarter. Seven minutes later, it was over.

No points. One assist. One three-point attempt.

But beyond the stat sheet, the night marked his first real step into the PBA landscape.

The 34-year-old Fil-Am guard, selected seventh overall in the most recent PBA Draft, joined the Bolts less than two weeks ago after wrapping up a championship run in the MPBL with the Abra Solid North Weavers. The quick turnaround left little time for full integration, and it showed.

Meralco quickly found itself trailing by as many as 20 in the second half, limiting opportunities for experimentation. Brickman never returned after his initial first-quarter stint, still learning the timing, spacing, and rhythm of Luigi Trillo’s system.

“I’m enjoying playing for the team so far. We only have a few practices, but it’s good to be on board with the team,” said Brickman.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

Jason Brickman putting up shots at the Meralco practice facility. The 34 y/o playmaker just signed a 1-year contract with the Bolts. Though already loaded with guards, the 2025 Mpbl Finals MVP will unquestionably be a difference-maker for them. pic.twitter.com/QeBPIRXJDY

— PBA insider (@PBAinsider) February 1, 2026

For a player long regarded as a traditional floor general — known for his passing vision and composure — the adjustment phase may take time. Chemistry, especially for point guards, cannot be rushed. Every set call, every defensive rotation, every subtle read must become instinctive.

Trillo acknowledged as much.

“Jason is still new and doesn’t know (sometimes) what he’s doing. He hasn’t had some time with us,” said the Meralco coach.

The candid assessment reflects the reality of Brickman’s situation. After celebrating a maiden MPBL title, he barely paused before signing a one-year deal with the Bolts — shifting leagues, teammates, and systems in the span of weeks.

Yet patience remains the theme inside the Meralco camp.

“He hasn’t had any games (with us). But he’ll get there. Jason Brickman will get there,” Trillo added.

For now, Brickman’s debut will be remembered less for numbers and more for context — a veteran guard stepping into unfamiliar territory, starting from scratch in a league he has long circled but only now entered.

Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!