Alas flashes vintage form, helps NLEX nip Phoenix

Sports

VETERAN playmaker Kevin Alas showed the form that made him one of the top picks 11 years ago as he powered the NLEX Road Warriors to an 87-81 win over the Phoenix Fuel Masters in the 50th PBA Philippine Cup on Wednesday night, Oct. 23, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Alas, the second overall pick in the 2014 Rookie Draft, put in a solid all-around game with 26 points, five rebounds, three assists, and two steals to lead NLEX’s second win in three games.

Still in competitive form despite going through three ACL injuries, Alas also pumped in crucial baskets down the stretch that helped the Road Warriors stave off the rallying Fuel Masters.

Phoenix also got significant contributions from Robert Bolick, who marked his return from a two-game absence with nine points, nine rebounds and seven assists.

Tony Semerad, JB Bahio, and Xyrus Torres combined for 32 points for NLEX, which bounced back from a shock 91-97 loss to the lowly Terrafirma Dyip.

The Road Warriors’ other win came at the expense of the powerhouse San Miguel Beermen, 85-84.

Falling to 1-2 (win-loss), the Fuel Masters were led by Ricci Riveros’ 22 points.

THE SCORES:

NLEX (87) - Alas 26, Semerad 11, Bahio 11, Torres 10, Bolick 9, Fajardo 7, Nieto 7, Ramirez 4, Valdez 2, Rodger 0, Mocon 0, Policarpio 0.

PHOENIX (81) - Rivero 22, Perkins 15, Ballungay 12, Tuffin 9, Tio 7, Kwekuteye 6, Caperal 5, Nelle 3, Manganti 2, Escandor 0, Jazul 0, Daves 0, Santos 0.QUARTERSCORES: 14-17, 45-30, 70-57, 87-81.(CCM)