The NLEX Road Warriors picked up a much-needed win after upsetting the Alaska Aces, 113-102, last night in the 40th PBA Governors’ Cup at the Mall of Asia Arena.
It was NLEX’s first win in franchise history against Alaska, snapping a two-game slide to hike its record to 2-4 (win-loss), good for a three-way tie at eighth to 10th places with defending champions Star Hotshots and Barangay Ginebra Kings.
Alaska failed in its bid to join the Barako Bull Energy Colas at the number-one spot, tasting its second loss in six games for joint third place with the GlobalPort Batang Pier.
Barako Bull leads the standings with a 5-1 record followed by the streaking San Miguel Beermen, who are 5-2.
Defense did it for the Road Warriors as they held the Aces scoreless in a seven-minute span in the fourth quarter to complete their rally from a 13-point third quarter deficit.
Imports Kwame Alexander and Michel Madanly carried the Road Warriors on their shoulders by firing 28 points apiece.
Alexander scored nine points in the fourth period and also had 11 rebounds
With his solid showing, Alexander could prolong his stay with the team as the Road Warriors have reportedly brought in former Barako Bull Joshua Dollard to save the team’s sagging playoff campaign.
Madanly also chipped in nine rebounds and five assists.
Romeo Travis finished with a game-high 31 points for Alaska, which sputtered at the finish after a dominant third quarter showing.
THE SCORES
NLEX (113) – Alexander 28, Madanly 28, Taulava 20, Cardona 15, Canaleta 6, Villanueva E. 5, Wilson 4, Villanueva J. 4, Arboleda W. 3, Borboran 0, Ramos 0.
ALASKA (102)- Travis 31, Baguio 23, Banchero 14, Casio 12, Jazul 8, Abueva 6, Manuel 2, Thoss 2, Menk 2, Dela Cruz 2, Dela Rosa 0, Exciminiano 0, Hontiveros 0.
QUARTER SCORES: 31-29, 60-54, 83-85, 113-102
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