MANILA, Philippines – Warriors are coming into the 2017 PBA season with a renewed sense of purpose, hoping to convert their recent victories into further playoff success and, eventually, a chance to win a title.

Rain or Shine eliminated them in the quarterfinals after they had finished second in the Philippine Cup elimination stage. The outcome was both discouraging and inspiring. Changes on and off the court are crucial if NLEX is to advance, according to head coach Jong Uichico.

Promising youthful faces were added to NLEX throughout the offseason. The addition of Jonnel Policarpio, a standout in the UAAP and NCAA, added vitality and scoring ability. Bringing size and inside presence, Brandon Ramirez, a forward/center, joined from the MPBL’s Pampanga Giant Lanterns. In an effort to stretch defenses and create space on offense, they also signed long-range shooter Xyrus Torres, who had previously played for FEU and the Quezon Huskers.

There is one significant absence: veteran guard Robert Bolick is not playing because he is mourning the loss of his father. Both a gap and an opportunity are created by his absence: other players will take over the leadership and scoring duties. This season, Uichico said, will determine whether players are prepared to step up when things get tight—those who can perform when the stakes are at their highest.

One theme is cohesion. Many of the newcomers had won in their amateur and college careers, Uichico noted. Bringing that winning culture together in the PBA’s high-pressure setting is the problem. It will take chemistry, communication, and consistent performance to create a cohesive team.

Another asset is the coaching staff, which is made up of seasoned professionals with a variety of championship backgrounds. Prior title runs have benefited from the tactical expertise and player development experience of players like Siot Tanquingcen, Borgie Hermida, and others. It is hoped that their combined knowledge will assist NLEX in closing the gap between the finals team and the promising contender.

The upcoming tenth season of the NLEX franchise marks a significant milestone. Both Uichico and management see that as a sign of advancement and a reminder that PBA titles are earned gradually. They pointed out that other franchises have experienced comparable wait times before becoming successful.

Uichico emphasized that a championship is the result of a multi-step process that includes trades, draft improvements, and meticulous internal growth. He admitted that uncertainty always comes with roster changes and new faces: adjusting styles, integrating personalities, and trying out new combinations. But what NLEX wants to rely on are the basics: effort, character, and a competitive spirit.

They will play Terrafirma Dyip in a doubleheader on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo as their first test. How well the team defends, how steady its offense becomes without Bolick, and how fast the younger players become used to PBA speed and physicality are all early indicators of readiness that can be found in the game.

Coaches and players alike feel that every conference must reflect forward momentum, even though championship aspirations are still high. Standings improvement is no longer sufficient; NLEX is looking for improved playoff performance, more resilient play under duress, and the capacity to handle more seasoned teams with poise.

All things considered, NLEX has a cautiously hopeful perspective. A foundation for development is created by the combination of youthful energy, seasoned coaching, and drive. The Road Warriors might soon cease being merely hopefuls and start acting as threats if they stay healthy, keep up their camaraderie, and perform when it counts.

The plot of this season is likely to revolve around NLEX’s ability to demonstrate that their “gains” were real. Is it possible for the emerging pieces to become more than potential? The Road Warriors seem prepared to embark on that adventure, but only the next few games will tell.