The PBA Commissioner’s Cup standings tightened as NLEX pulled off a 92-90 comeback win over Rain or Shine at Ninoy Aquino Stadium Wednesday, erasing a 14-point deficit in a pivotal elimination round clash that reshaped the race for top positioning and added intensity to the final stretch of the eliminations. The win allowed NLEX to climb into a tie at the top of the standings, turning what looked like a controlled game for Rain or Shine into a late collapse.

Robert Bolick led the charge in the second half while JB Bahio delivered the game-winner, completing a comeback that shifted momentum in the standings race and gave NLEX a crucial head-to-head breakthrough against a top contender. The result placed both teams on equal footing and further tightened the battle for playoff seeding as the elimination round approaches its closing games.

Bolick powers NLEX comeback

Robert Bolick took over in the second half after NLEX trailed by double digits at halftime, using aggressive scoring and steady playmaking to bring the Road Warriors back into contention. His performance helped erase a 49-37 deficit as Rain or Shine began to lose control of the tempo.

Bolick’s ability to create offense under pressure allowed NLEX to steadily chip away at the lead while keeping teammates involved in the comeback push. His late-game reads also helped stabilize the offense as the game tightened entering the final minutes.

Bahio seals win

With the game tied late, Bolick broke down the defense and delivered a pass to JB Bahio, who finished the go-ahead basket that ultimately decided the game. The play capped NLEX’s late surge and gave them a 92-90 victory over Rain or Shine.

Rain or Shine was unable to respond in the closing possessions as NLEX locked in defensively and controlled the final sequence. The Elasto Painters, despite a strong start, were unable to recover once momentum fully shifted.

Standings tighten

NLEX and Rain or Shine now sit tied at the top of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup standings after the result, increasing pressure on both teams as the elimination round nears its conclusion. The win also keeps Barangay Ginebra and TNT within striking distance in a tightly packed race.

Every remaining game now carries significant weight in determining final seeding, with multiple teams still capable of shifting the top-four landscape. The closing stretch is expected to decide not just positioning but also playoff matchups heading into the next round.