MANILA, Philippines – At the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo, NLEX Road Warriors defeated Phoenix Super LPG 108-94 on Sunday to snap a five-game losing streak in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. Driven by a relentless perimeter offense, the victory signaled NLEX’s return to contention.

With an incredible performance that included two three-pointers and an uncommon four-pointer, Robert Bolick led the Road Warriors’ comeback. Bolick also showed off his all-around skills by contributing five rebounds and nine assists. In addition to breaking NLEX’s skid, his efforts also marked his comeback to form following a string of poor performances.

Since defeating San Miguel Beermen 104-99 on December 8, NLEX had not won a game. After losing to Barangay Ginebra, Converge, Magnolia, Meralco, and TNT, the Road Warriors were on the edge of being eliminated.

NLEX’s deft shooting from beyond the arc was essential in breaking down Phoenix’s defense and holding the Fuel Masters at bay the entire time. The Road Warriors’ dedication to getting back into form and contending for the playoffs was demonstrated by their long-range shooting prowess.

NLEX’s campaign was revitalized by the victory, which kept them in the running for the playoffs and provided a much-needed morale boost as they got ready for the last leg of the eliminations. At this point, the Road Warriors want to maintain their momentum and move up the rankings.

With a dominating double-double of 22 points and 18 rebounds, Michael Watkins helped NLEX win a pivotal game that moved them into a 4-6 tie with Magnolia for ninth place. In the PBA Commissioner’s Cup standings, the Road Warriors are now only half a game behind eighth-seeded San Miguel Beer (4-5). Jonnel Policarpio, Robert Herndon, and Anthony Semerad all provided 17, 15, and 11 points, respectively, to help support Watkins’ outstanding performance.

NLEX must maintain their newfound momentum in their remaining elimination games against Rain or Shine and Eastern to keep their playoff hopes alive in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. With a postseason berth still within reach, head coach Jong Uichico emphasized the importance of playing with urgency and consistency. 

Meanwhile, the Phoenix Fuel Masters find themselves in a precarious position following their second consecutive loss, which dropped them to 11th place with a 3-7 record. Their playoff hopes are diminishing rapidly as they prepare for challenging matchups against TNT and Blackwater in their final two games.

Phoenix’s struggles have highlighted their inconsistency, with the team unable to capitalize on promising starts or find answers to their opponents’ firepower. Despite their precarious standing, the Fuel Masters remain determined to fight for a chance to salvage their season.

As NLEX fights to climb the standings and Phoenix battles to avoid elimination, the coming games will test both teams’ resolve and ability to deliver under pressure in the race for the Commissioner’s Cup playoffs.

Phoenix led 48-45 at the half, demonstrating potential at first. However, the Fuel Masters’ defense was completely destroyed by a flurry of three-pointers from NLEX, which came from Bolick, Herndon, Semerad, Xyrus Torres, and Brandon Ramirez. NLEX dominated the battle on the perimeter, making a total of 12 three-pointers and two four-pointers.

With timely scoring surges in the third quarter, the Road Warriors took charge and led 86-73, 13 points ahead, going into the fourth quarter. Donovan Smith led Phoenix with a game-high 32 points and 14 rebounds, but his efforts were not enough to overcome NLEX’s unrelenting offensive assault.

Despite Phoenix’s four successful three-point attempts and one four-point play, NLEX’s effective shooting was the difference, as they made 12-of-32 from beyond the arc and 2-of-4 from four-point range. Phoenix’s waning prospects were dealt a blow by the Road Warriors’ victory, which also keeps their postseason hopes alive.

Scores at the end of the match

NLEX with 108 points for the win

Individual scores: Bolick 26, Watkins 22, Policarpio 17, Herndon 15, Semerad 11, Torres 9, Ramirez 5, Nieto 3, Mocon 0

Phoenix with 94 points

Individual scores: Smith 36, Rivero 13, Perkins 8, Muyang 8, Tio 7, Tuffin 6, Garcia 5, Jazul 5, Alejandro 3, Ballungay 2, Manganti 1, Salado 0, Camacho 0, Ular 0, Daves 0, Verano 0.

Scores per quarter:

 25-17, 45-48, 86-73, 108-94