Asi Taulava posts up. PBA IMAGES
Desperate for a win, NLEX took down Alaska, 113-102, in a game that could get the Road Warriors campaign rolling in the 2015 PBA Governors’ Cup Tuesday at Mall of Asia Arena.
Asi Taulava recorded a double-double with 20 points and 13 rebounds for the Road Warriors, who improved to 2-4.
“It was time for us to win,” said NLEX head coach Boyet Fernandez, who was all smiles during his post-game interview. “At least we won against Alaska. Probably, it will give us more morale-boosting preparations for our next game against San Miguel.”
NLEX’s two imports Michael Madanly and Kwame Alexander combined for 56 points and 20 rebounds while Mac Cardona added 15, including a basket from close range that capped a crucial four-point swing for a 103-96 lead with 2:01 left.
Alexander’s commendable effort came after rumors surfaced that the Road Warriors are already eyeing to replace him following a blowout loss to the Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters last week.
“I think the way he played tonight for sure management will give him another chance,” Fernandez said of Alexander’s status.
Alaska drew a game-high 31 points from import Romeo Travis and 23 points from Cyrus Baguio but couldn’t make its shots down the stretch to slip to 4-2, blowing a chance to keep in step with league-leader Barako Bull in the standings. CC
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.
Quarters: 31-29, 60-54, 83-85, 113-102