Balanced NLEX subdues GlobalPort in Christmas clash

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net

BOCAUE — NLEX shared the blessings and in turn, went on to have a merry Christmas after a 115-104 win over GlobalPort to stay unbeaten in the 2018 PBA Philippine Cup Monday at Philippine Arena here.

Leaning on a balanced attack, the Road Warriors negated the 33-point outing from Stanley Pringle to improve to 2-0 in the conference.

Kiefer Ravena unloaded 20 points and had two rebounds, five assists and four steals to lead the assault for NLEX. He capped another stellar outing and punctuated the Road Warriors’ victory with a slam with 37 seconds left.

“We just gave ourselves and our supporters a really nice Christmas gift on Christmas day,” said NLEX coach Yeng Guiao.

“We’re happy that we were able to carry our winning momentum because it’s going to be a two-week break for us. But we’ll keep on practicing through the holidays.”

The Road Warriors took advantage of the Batang Pier missing the services of main gunner Terrence Romeo, who is still recovering from his knee contusion, as they made the world’s largest indoor arena as their playground to knock off the numerous rallies from the opposition.

Quiñahan preserved NLEX’s 10-point cushion in the fourth before Ravena and Fonacier drilled treys to seal the win in the waning minutes.

“We’re just taking advantage of the breaks we’re getting, and at the same time, it’s giving us time to jell,” said Guiao.

Pringle’s high-scoring output and all-around brilliance went to waste as he also corralled 10 rebounds, four assists, and two steals in the losing effort.

Sean Anthony chimed in 19 markers, nine boards, and three dimes off the bench, while Jonathan Grey got 13 points and two assists.

The scores:

NLEX 115 — Ravena 20, Quiñahan 19, Fonacier 12, Tiongson 10, Alas 9, Baguio 8, Gotladera 8, Miranda 8, Mallari 6, Monfort 5, Rios 5, Taulava 3, Al-Hussaini 2.

GLOBALPORT 104 — Pringle 33, Anthony 19, Grey 13, Nabong 9, Araña 8, Elorde 5, Guinto 4, Juico 4, Taha 4, Flores 2, Sargent 2, Gabayni 1.

Quarters: 25-25, 50-45, 84-76, 115-104.