Kevin Alas scored 26 points while Robert Bolick made his return as NLEX downed Phoenix, 87-81, to join three others atop the standings in the PBA Philippine Cup on Wednesday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Alas waxed hot in the first half before sinking crucial shots down the stretch that sealed the Road Warriors’ second victory in three starts to tie the Converge FiberXers, TNT Tropang 5G and Magnolia Hotshots.
It was a sterling performance for Alas, who last season had gone through an adjustment period coming off a third ACL injury. He also had five rebounds, three assists and two steals.
NLEX won in the season debut of Robert Bolick, who had nine points, seven rebounds, nine assists and two steals in 36 minutes.
Bolick missed the Road Warriors’ first two games after traveling to the United States to mourn the passing of his father, Robert Sr.
Anthony Semerad added 11 points and 10 rebounds for NLEX, which redeemed itself after losing to Terrafirma last Oct. 12.
Ricci Rivero scored 22 points but the Fuel Masters fell to a 1-2 record.
Phoenix was able to trim the gap to two, 76-74, on Rivero’s triple, but Alas knocked down a four-pointer to restore order in NLEX’s favor.
Alas wasn’t done as he came through with a jumper to make it 85-81 for NLEX with 39.1 seconds to go.