Blackwater’s Don Trollano. PBA IMAGES
MANILA,Philippines—Blackwater bounced back and kept NLEX winless, 98-88, for a second victory in the PBA Philippine Cup Saturday at Angeles University Foundation.
The Elite lost to Barangay Ginebra 103-99 in their previous game but displayed renewed confidence against the Road Warriors to improve to 2-1.
From 46-all heading into the break, Blackwater turned to the third quarter once more to establish its free flowing offense, outscoring the Road Warriors, 35-16, to take an 81-62 lead.
This was the third straight game that the Elite had a stellar third quarter after they also scored 41 and 39 points in their previous two games, respectively.
“It’s a combination of both our offense and how we played, and maybe the other team committing break downs,” said Blackwater head coach Nash Racela. “It’s nice that we’re able to score that way in the third quarter.”
Blackwater also enjoyed a massive bench production with 64 points, marking a league record this conference.
The Elite’s outstanding mark of 64 rebounds is also a league record this season.
Don Trollano finished with an 18-point, 11-rebound double-double to lead the Elite while Niño Canaleta also had 18 points and grabbed seven boards.
Kiefer Ravena had 17 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, and four steals to lead the Road Warriors who dropped to 0-3.