NLEX blended energy, execution, and timely opportunity in routing TNT, 91-74, on Wednesday, April 23, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum for their second straight win in the 2025 PBA Philippine Cup.

John Bryle Bahio powered the Road Warriors with a career outing, posting 13 points and 12 rebounds. He received ample support from fellow rookie Xyrus Torres and veteran Robert Bolick, who also scored 13 apiece. The win followed NLEX’s impressive 109-95 performance over Rain or Shine prior to the Holy Week break.

Head coach Jong Uichico credited the synergy between his young and veteran players as a key factor in their 2-1 start to the season.

“We need young players to give the energy even while the veterans are out… It also challenges the veterans to play as hard as the young ones do — and vice versa also,” said Uichico.

The Road Warriors took full control of the game in the second quarter and broke it open in the third, leading by as much as 91-69 before coasting to victory.

Their dominant showing was also aided by TNT’s limited preparation time following their recent Commissioner’s Cup title run, which ended on March 28. Uichico acknowledged the timing as a factor.

“Siyempre, coming off a championship… ilang araw lang sila nakapag-practice. May kasabihan nga, eh… hangover sa championship,” said the veteran tactician.

Aside from Bahio, NLEX had contributions from Javee Mocon, Enoch Valdez, and Brandon Ramirez, each tallying at least 10 points and five boards. The team also dominated the glass, grabbing 18 offensive rebounds and outscoring TNT 17-0 in second-chance points.

“Akin lang, ibinibigay ko lang best ko… Ibinibigay ko lang a hundred percent ko every game,” said Bahio, who entered the match averaging 9.0 points across two games.

TNT, on the other hand, struggled to find rhythm. Only Roger Pogoy (12 points) and Kelly Williams (11) scored in double digits. The Tropang Giga look to rebound quickly with a tough assignment against Converge on Sunday.