NLEX rolls over Big Chill to take Game 1 of PBA D-League Finals

Alex Mallari of Big chill (white) vs Jake Pascual and Kirk Long of NLEX. Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines – NLEX just had the depth that Big Chill couldn’t match as the Road Warriors rolled over the Superchargers, 86-71, Monday for a 1-0 headstart in their best-of-three title series of the 2012 PBA D-League Foundation Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

With a good use of team ball, NLEX never relinquished its commanding lead it built early.

The Road Warriors, who had a total of 22 assists, led 25-8 in the first quarter which they stretched to as big as 27, 86-59, on a Jake Pascual basket from an RR Garcia dime.

Calvin Abueva had 16 points while fellow San Sebastian star Ian Sangalang added 14 more to go along with nine rebounds and two blocks.

“They stuck to our game plan. We only won one game, we still need to win another,” said NLEX head coach Boyet Fernandez.

Big Chill drew 28 points from Alex Mallari but with most of his coming in late, it hardly mattered.

Despite the 15-point win that didn’t even dictate how his team dominated, Fernandez sees a different foe come Game 2.

“I expect them to come back strong. They’re well coached and well balanced but we’ll be ready come Thursday.”

Game 2, which will start at 2:30 p.m. to make way for the awarding ceremonies, will be played at the FilOil Flying V Arena.