NLEX banked on a strong fourth quarter to destroy Northport, 102-88, and barge into the win column on Wednesday in the Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup restart at the Angeles University Foundation gym in Pampanga.
Ahead only with 77-76 in the early part of payoff frame, t
The Road Warriors uncorked a sizzling 19-2 run highlighted by Kiefer Ravena’s seven points to stretch a 77-76 edge into a 96-78 cushion with four-and-a-half minutes left in the game.
It was just a matter of time before the Road Warriors bagged their first win in four games in the bubble, while sending the Batang Pier to their fourth straight loss.
“It’s definitely more difficult than usual because of the unique circumstances that we are in, so we are just trying to be positive as much as we can,” NLEX coach Yeng Guiao said. “We felt that if we could sustain our energy, if we could just lift each other up and be positive, maybe we can still make something out of this tournament.”
Ravena exploded for 25 points—including nine in that decisive fourth quarter attack—along with five rebounds, four assists and two steals to lead the Road Warriors.
Big man Jay-R Quiñahan controlled his temper and stayed the entire game to finish with 17 points. Kevin Alas posted a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds with six assists, while Jericho Cruz added 10 points and Michael Miranda contributed nine for NLEX.
Kevin Ferrer led Northport with 18 points while rookie Sean Manganti had 16 points.
Sean Anthony suffered a suspected pulled hamstring in the first period and didn’t return in the game.
Scores:
NLEX 102 – Ravena 25, Quinahan 17, Alas 16, Cruz 10, Miranda 9, Porter 8, Soyud 7, Ayonayon 6, Ighalo 2, McAloney 2, Galanza 0, Semerad 0, Paniamogan 0, Galanza 0.
NORTHPORT 88 – Manganti 16, Ferrer 18, Lanete 13, Revilla 8, Elorde 8, Standhardinger 7, Taha 6, Subido 6, Cruz 0, Anthony 0, Nabong 2.
Quarters : 20-15, 49-39, 75-68,102-88.