Bennie Boatwright powered San Miguel Beer to a crucial 98-94 victory over NLEX on Sunday, April 19, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Boatwright erupted for 41 points, leading the Beermen out of a two-game slump and back to a .500 record. Despite dealing with illness, the import delivered when it mattered most in a tight finish.

He knocked down two free throws to tie the game at 94-all before throwing down a two-handed dunk that gave San Miguel a 96-94 lead with 32.6 seconds left. NLEX had opportunities to respond, but Richie Rodger missed a wide-open three, and Robert Bolick failed to convert a last-second four-point attempt.

CJ Perez added a fastbreak basket late to seal the win as San Miguel improved to 4-4 in the standings.

Boatwright delivers despite illness concerns

San Miguel coach Leo Austria admitted concern over Boatwright and June Mar Fajardo, both of whom were under the weather heading into the game.

Boatwright skipped practice due to a cough and cold, while Fajardo also missed multiple sessions in the days leading up to the matchup. Still, both players suited up and made key contributions.

Boatwright dominated offensively throughout the game, while Fajardo recorded a double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds in limited minutes.

Austria highlighted Boatwright’s importance, emphasizing the impact he brings whenever he is available and healthy.

Beermen overcome hot NLEX start

NLEX came out aggressive, with Cady Lalanne and Schonny Winston leading an early surge that pushed the Road Warriors to a 35-20 advantage.

San Miguel responded behind Boatwright’s scoring, eventually building an 85-73 lead before NLEX mounted a late comeback. Lalanne scored 12 points in the fourth quarter, including a triple that gave NLEX a 94-92 edge with 1:26 remaining.

Lalanne finished with 35 points, while Winston added 20. Bolick struggled offensively, shooting 1-of-9 for nine points, though he nearly posted a triple-double with 10 rebounds and 12 assists.

Marcio Lassiter added 16 points for San Miguel, while Jericho Cruz chipped in 11 points and nine rebounds. Perez finished with 13 points on 5-of-15 shooting.

The loss snapped NLEX’s four-game winning streak as it dropped to 6-2, while San Miguel regained momentum in the conference.