Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Terrence Romeo exploded for 32 points as GlobalPort repulsed NLEX, 110-96, to claim solo third place in the 2017 PBA Philippine Cup Friday at Mall of Asia Arena.
The enigmatic guard set the tone early and fired 22 markers in the first half as he shot 12-of-23 from the field. He also had five rebounds and four assists in the wire-to-wire win.
“It’s a good win for us. We play some tough teams in our next games against San Miguel, TNT, and Rain or Shine,” said coach Franz Pumaren. “At least, this is a buffer for us.”
The Road Warriors managed to trim the Batang Pier’s 50-38 halftime lead to just five, 59-54, but Stanley Pringle anchored a 12-0 run to give them a 71-54 edge with 3:58 left in the third.
Josh Urbiztondo padded the lead to 21, 82-61, but was met by another rally from NLEX until JR Quinahan stepped on the gas pedal and sealed the deal for the Batang Pier.
“One thing I really appreciate is they’re starting to accept their roles, and even the bench guys are accepting their roles,” noted Pumaren, as GlobalPort improved to 5-3 card.
Pringle fired 20 markers, seven dimes, five boards, and two steals, while Quinahan added 18 points and seven rebounds.
Papot Paredes also chipped in 13 markers and six boards in the conquest.
NLEX once again fell to the cellar with a 2-6 record.
Carlo Lastimosa topped the Road Warriors with 19 points, six assists, and five rebounds in the loss, while Sean Anthony got 16 markers, nine boards, and five dimes off the bench.