ANTIPOLO CITY — NLEX Road Warriors held their composure in the closing minutes to edge Meralco Bolts, 89-85, in a nail-biting Philippine Cup encounter at the Ynares Sports Center on Sunday, October 26. The victory snapped Meralco’s three-game winning streak and tightened the race atop the standings.

The Road Warriors, now 3-1, are in a deadlock with Magnolia, Converge, TNT, and Rain or Shine, all sharing identical records. NLEX will look to pull clear when they face Blackwater on Wednesday.

Bahio shines in crunch time

JB Bahio delivered when it mattered most, contributing 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals. His clutch play in the final stretch earned him Best Player of the Game honors.

“Sabi ni Kuya Berto, ilaro ko lang ang laro ko. Kung ano ipinapakita ko sa praktis, ipakita ko sa game,” Bahio said after shooting 5-of-9 from the floor and 6-of-8 at the line.

Robert Bolick also had a standout performance, posting 11 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists. His two crucial free throws late in the game sealed the win after Bong Quinto missed a final buzzer attempt. Kevin Alas, Jonnel Policarpio, and Robert Herndon supported with double-digit contributions.

Meralco’s effort falls short

CJ Cansino led Meralco with 24 points, keeping the Bolts within striking distance late in the fourth quarter. Cliff Hodge (14 points, 17 rebounds) and Chris Newsome (21 points, 11 rebounds) added double-doubles, but Meralco could not overcome NLEX’s late-game poise.

The loss marked Meralco’s second consecutive defeat, following their opening EASL loss to Ryukyu in Japan. The Bolts will face TNT on Wednesday, seeking to rebound and regain momentum.