NLEX opened its Philippine Cup campaign with a shocker, stunning defending champion San Miguel Beer, 85-84, on Wednesday, October 8, at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo.

Playing without top gun Robert Bolick, who was on bereavement following the death of his father, the Road Warriors found motivation and resilience to overcome a 10-point halftime deficit and spoil the Beermen’s season opener.

Coach Jong Uichico dedicated the victory to Bolick. “We dedicate the game to Berto. Medyo may motivation factor kami in today’s game,” said Uichico.

Road Warriors rally behind Policarpio, Ramirez, and Bahio

Jonnel Policarpio, Brandon Ramirez, and JB Bahio took charge for NLEX, leading a small-ball attack that dismantled the Beermen’s size advantage. Policarpio and Ramirez scored 16 points each, while Bahio posted a 12-point, 12-rebound double-double.

Policarpio poured in 12 points in the second half as the Road Warriors chipped away at the deficit. NLEX trailed 32-42 at halftime but closed the third quarter down by just one, 66-67. From there, they completed the turnaround in the fourth period to secure the win.

San Miguel falters in the endgame

The Beermen still had chances late. Don Trollano buried a four-point play with 11.1 seconds remaining to trim the lead to one. After Bahio missed two free throws, San Miguel had a final possession to steal the game.

But Trollano opted to pass in the dying seconds instead of taking the potential game-winner, allowing NLEX to escape with the upset.