Meralco backs Cliff Hodge, denounces coach's 'dirtiest player' claim

Meralco Bolts issued a statement defending veteran forward Cliff Hodge after Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao publicly labeled him “the dirtiest player in the league” following a collision with Rain or Shine guard Adrian Nocum during a PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup game. The team said the contact was incidental, occurred while Hodge was in a legal defensive position, and emphasized Hodge’s reputation as a multiple‑time Defensive Player of the Year and All‑Defensive Team member.

Meralco called Guiao’s remarks “unfair, unfounded and unprofessional,” asserting that they maligned Hodge without cause. Guiao had said, “Again, it’s Cliff Hodge. He’s the dirtiest player in the league, I think,” while Hodge downplayed the criticism, stating he remains focused on helping his team. The dispute has heightened the rivalry between the two franchises as the Governors’ Cup continues.