MANILA, Philippines–Chris Newsome is staying with the Meralco Bolts after all.

Newsome and the Bolts agreed on a three-year extension despite having the option of signing elsewhere as an unrestricted free agent.

“New has been part of our program for a long time and he’s a big reason why Meralco is where it is,” coach Luigi Trillo. “For him, it’s important that he retires with us, but we’re happy that he signed up long term. He deserves his contract.”

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Talks of Newsome’s future had been a topic, especially on social media, even before he led the Bolts to their breakthrough PBA championship in the 2024 Philippine Cup.

The 35-year-old’s contract expired at the end of the season, fueling talk of a possible move, particularly to Barangay Ginebra. Newsome has been a fixture with Gilas Pilipinas since Ginebra coach Tim Cone took charge of the national squad in 2023.

But Newsome has been somewhat of a Meralco lifer since getting drafted in 2015.

“I’m happy that he stayed,” said Trillo. “He has done so much for the team and it’s nice that he continues his journey with us.”