NLEX Triumphs Over Defending Champion San Miguel Amid Robert Bolick's Absence

ANTIPOLO, Philippines – The NLEX Road Warriors overcame the loss of key player Robert Bolick to hand defending Philippine Cup champion San Miguel Beermen a tough defeat in a closely contested match on Wednesday, October 8, at the Ynares Center.

Bolick missed the game to mourn the passing of his American father, yet his teammates stepped up significantly to fill the void. Jonnel Policarpio and Brandon Ramirez each contributed 16 points, while JB Bahio achieved a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds.

Road Warriors coach Jong Uichico emphasized the emotional dedication behind the win, stating, "We’re trying to dedicate this game to Berto’s father who passed away. He was supposed to play today before leaving, but we understand that he wants to be with his father for the last time."

NLEX erased a double-digit deficit and secured an 85-80 lead following two crucial free throws by Bahio with less than 20 seconds remaining. The Beermen rallied as Don Trollano's four-point play brought the game within one point, and two missed free throws by Bahio left San Miguel a chance to take the lead.

However, the Beermen missed their opportunity when Trollano, unaware of the game clock, opted against a potential game-winning shot and turned the ball over at the buzzer.

In Bolick's absence, Kevin Alas provided solid support with 13 points, five rebounds, and two steals, complemented by Richie Rodger's nine points. For San Miguel, nine-time MVP June Mar Fajardo led with 18 points, 15 rebounds, and four assists but was largely contained in the critical fourth quarter, scoring only two points. Trollano tallied 17 points along with five assists and three steals, while Jericho Cruz added 12 points and six boards.

CJ Perez, recovering from an ankle injury and also a First Mythical Team member alongside Fajardo, played limited minutes, contributing two points.

Final Scores:

NLEX 85 – Policarpio 16, Ramirez 16, Alas 13, Bahio 12, Rodger 9, Valdez 6, Amer 5, Semerad 4, Nieto 2, Torres 2, Fajardo 0, Herndon 0.

San Miguel 84 – Fajardo 18, Trollano 17, Cruz 12, Lassiter 8, Tiongson 7, Brondial 7, Tautuaa 6, Cahilig 5, Teng 2, Perez 2, Ross 0, Miller 0.

Quarter scores were 22-25, 32-42, 66-67, and 85-84.

This victory marks a resilient effort by NLEX as they continue to navigate the Philippine Cup without one of their top scorers.