NLEX nabs first PBA bubble win over struggling Northport

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

The NLEX Road Warriors are back in the winning column after trouncing the struggling Northport Batang Pier, 102-88 to keep them winless in the PBA bubble.

Coach Yeng Guiao deployed the finishing blow in the last five minutes of the ball game after the slugfest battle turned out to be a blowout after NLEX closed the game with a 23-4 run.

With 4:30 remaining, NLEX superstar Kiefer Ravena converted an and-one play which sparked his team and immediately caught fire in the crucial stretch of the game.

The one-point NLEX lead suddenly became 18, 96-78, and the Guiao’s boys never looked back and put on the finishing touches to grab their first win in the bubble.

Northport managed to keep the gap close and stayed within a three to two-point deficit most of the ball game but unfortunately, one of their leaders in the team, Sean Anthony, exited the game due to an injury.

JR Quiñahan was also a pain to deal with for Northport after delivering 17 huge points including baskets to answer Northport’s attempt to trim the lead.

Ravena added 25 points, five rebounds, and four assists while backcourt pal Kevin Alas contributed 14 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists.