NLEX locked up the top seed in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup playoffs after surviving a gritty overtime battle against Titan Ultra, pulling away late for a 123-112 victory Tuesday, May 5, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The Road Warriors overcame a 14-point deficit behind a dominant second-half surge from Cady Lalanne and Robert Bolick, whose leadership proved decisive as NLEX secured its fourth straight win to close the eliminations at 10-2.

The victory was not as straightforward as coach Jong Uichico envisioned, with his plans to distribute minutes more evenly derailed by Titan’s aggressive early play. Instead, NLEX’s starters were forced into heavy minutes as the Road Warriors fought to avoid a costly upset.

NLEX top seed PBA Commissioner’s Cup secured behind Bolick and Lalanne heroics

Lalanne delivered a monster double-double performance with 29 points and 20 rebounds, imposing his will inside after a relatively quiet first half. His interior dominance became the anchor for NLEX’s comeback.

Bolick, meanwhile, once again showcased his all-around brilliance despite a slow offensive start. The star guard finished with a triple-double of 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists, taking over playmaking duties as the game tightened.

Schonny Winston added 24 points, including six crucial markers in overtime, helping NLEX seize complete control during the extra period. Once momentum fully shifted, the Road Warriors overwhelmed Titan with relentless execution.

Coach Jong Uichico admitted postgame that the extended workload for his starters was far from ideal, especially with the playoffs looming. However, securing the top spot remained the immediate priority.

The reward is significant: NLEX now earns additional rest and a favorable quarterfinal matchup against the eighth seed when postseason action begins May 13.

Titan Ultra collapse extends skid despite strong first-half showing

Titan Ultra appeared poised for an upset after building a commanding 57-43 lead and carrying a 59-50 halftime advantage. Michael Gilmore led the charge with 25 points, 18 rebounds, and five assists, while Joshua Munzon contributed 19 points, eight boards, and seven assists.

However, Titan’s inability to sustain its first-half energy proved costly. The team’s offense faltered under NLEX’s defensive adjustments, while execution down the stretch collapsed under pressure.

Jerrick Balanza nearly delivered a regulation victory, but missed opportunities in the final possessions allowed NLEX to force overtime. Once in the extra session, Titan had no answer for the Road Warriors’ superior firepower.

The defeat marked Titan Ultra’s sixth consecutive loss, dropping the struggling squad to 2-9 with only one elimination game remaining. For NLEX, the result reinforces its championship aspirations and highlights the resilience that has defined its impressive conference campaign.

While the Road Warriors may not have executed perfectly, they delivered when it mattered most — and now enter the playoffs as the team to beat.