NLEX moved on the cusp of ending its string of playoff flameouts after defeating Phoenix, 124-117, for a 2-0 lead in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday at Ynares Center here.
Schonny Winston and Robert Bolick scored 31 points apiece while import Deonte Burton had 24 points and 10 rebounds as the Road Warriors held off a determined challenge from the Fuel Masters to close in on the sweep of the best-of-five affair.
The Road Warriors tightened their defensive effort after trailing 72-68 at the half, before pulling away in the fourth quarter with nine straight points.
That run turned a 101-all tie into a 110-101 lead to gain a firm grip on the contest. NLEX can finish the job on Saturday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Import Marcellus Earlington scored 22 points on top of nine rebounds while Ricci Rivero and Kai Ballungay added 21 each but the Fuel Masters were pushed to the brink of elimination with the defeat.
Phoenix had its last lead at 99-96 in the fourth before NLEX turned things around.
Winston scored and Burton drained a triple to put the Road Warriors ahead 101-99. Earlington scored on a layup before NLEX made its run.