TNT reinforcement Terrence Jones magnifies NLEX’s import woes

ANTIPOLO CITY—NLEX head coach Yeng Guiao was left in awe of TNT import Terrence Jones, acknowledging he’s the biggest reason why the Road Warriors lost their opening game in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Jones was too much for the Road Warriors as he had himself a debut of 41 points, 14 rebounds, and two blocks to lead the KaTropa to the 102-87 win.

“There really was a disparity in the quality of the import.  Of course, we know that he’s a legit NBA player and it all started from there,” said Guiao in Filipino Wednesday at Ynares Center here.

Jones played eight seasons in the NBA playing for three different teams and had his best year in the 2013-14 campaign with the Houston Rockets wherein he averaged 12.1 points and 6.9 rebounds.

“The whole team fed off his performance, and on the other hand our import was just a quick replacement.”

NLEX originally tabbed former Detroit Piston Tony Mitchell but he failed to show up in time, prompting the Road Warriors to get Curtis Washington a week before the start of their conference.

Washington, for his part, had 18 points, 18 rebounds, and two blocks.

Guiao added that the team could still get Mitchell, whom he said is already the Philippines, for the remainder of the conference.

“I think Tony is still around, and there’s that option to still bring him in,” said Guiao. “We heard that he’s here in the Philippines today so we’re looking at that option. We’re playing on Saturday but I don’t know if there’s enough time to do that. But we are seriously considering that option.”

Another option for Road Warriors is former reinforcement Arnett Moultrie who was with them during the 2018 Commissioner’s Cup.

Moultrie, who played two seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, is still signed with Kalev/Cramo in the Latvian-Estonian Basketball League leaving Mitchell as the best possible option.