Kevin Alas leads NLEX past Phoenix for second win in PBA Philippine Cup

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Kevin Alas showed flashes of his old brilliance as NLEX pulled off an 87-81 win over Phoenix to claim its second victory in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup on Wednesday, October 22, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Returning from his third ACL injury, Alas put on a masterful performance with 26 points, five rebounds, three assists, and two steals to lead the Road Warriors’ bounce-back effort after a tough loss to Terrafirma.

Kevin Alas shines in his best game since returning from injury, leading NLEX past Phoenix in the PBA Philippine Cup. [PBA Images]

“It’s all by God’s grace that after three ACL (injuries), nakakalaro pa rin ako. Playing like that, I’m grateful to God,” said Alas, who inspired his team with his resilience and poise in crunch time.

Robert Bolick also made his season debut, contributing nine points, nine rebounds, and seven assists after missing their first game due to his father’s passing. Acting as the floor general, Bolick helped set up teammates Tony Semerad, JB Bahio, and Xyrus Torres, who all joined Alas in leading NLEX’s balanced scoring.

Alas sparks NLEX surge as defense holds firm

Semerad, Bahio, and Torres combined for 32 points, giving coach Jong Uichico’s squad much-needed depth as they tied TNT, Magnolia, and Converge at 2-1 in the standings.

“Nag-step up ang defense ng Phoenix. They pressured us and we just couldn’t find a good shot. But that’s the way it is and you have to learn to handle it. Good thing, we also made good stops and we hung on,” said Uichico, praising his team’s composure down the stretch.

Alas nailed a crucial fadeaway jumper late in the fourth quarter, followed by two free throws from Bolick that kept the Fuel Masters at bay despite their strong rally.

Phoenix falls short despite Rivero’s effort

Ricci Rivero led Phoenix’s charge with 22 points and six rebounds, sparking a late-game comeback attempt. Jason Perkins added 15 points, while Kai Ballungay had 12 points and 11 boards for a double-double performance.

Despite their fightback, the Fuel Masters couldn’t sustain the same energy they showed in their upset win over San Miguel in their previous outing, dropping to 1-2.

With Alas regaining form and Bolick returning to the fold, NLEX’s victory sent a strong message that the Road Warriors remain a team to watch as the Philippine Cup heats up.