Robert Bolick delivered an outstanding performance, while Mike Watkins dominated the inside game, leading NLEX to a 107-95 victory over Blackwater in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on Saturday.
After scoring just three points in NLEX’s first game, Bolick bounced back with 23 points and 10 assists. Watkins was equally impressive, recording a double-double with 26 points and 25 rebounds. This strong showing helped NLEX overcome George King’s 40-point effort, recover from their previous 87-114 loss to NorthPort, and even their record at 1-1.
Winning coach Jong Uichico praised Watkins’ impact, noting, “His inside presence gave Blackwater trouble. He’s a matchup problem for them, just as King was for us with his 40 points.” Uichico added that Watkins’ inside game had a more significant positive effect on the overall outcome compared to King’s scoring.
Uichico emphasized the importance of maintaining their game plan, unlike their previous game where they lost an early 16-point lead. Bolick echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team’s focus on sticking to their strategy, which paid off in this game.
NLEX started strong with a 20-8 lead but faced a challenge when Blackwater surged ahead 32-26. However, Bolick, Watkins, and teammates Richie Rodger, Xyrus Torres, and Enoch Valdez regained control, pushing NLEX to an 81-69 lead entering the final quarter.
Despite missing Sedrick Barefield due to a foot injury, Blackwater stayed competitive, closing the gap to 76-85. However, a 15-4 run, capped by Anthony Semerad’s back-to-back corner triples, secured a 100-80 lead for NLEX in the last five minutes.
Final Scores:
- NLEX 107: Watkins 26, Bolick 23, Rodger 14, Torres 12, Valdez 11, Semerad 8, Amer 6, Herndon 3, Bahio 2, Mocon 2, Policarpio 0, Nermal 0.
- Blackwater 95: King 40, Chua 13, Tungcab 8, Kwekuteye 8, David 8, Montalbo 8, Ilagan 5, Escoto 5, Guinto 0, Jopia 0, Ponferrada 0, Suerte 0, Hill.
Quarter Scores: 22-17, 53-46, 81-69, 107-95.
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