NLEX’s fierce resolve and leadership under coach Jong Uichico powered them past Converge, 88-83, to secure their sixth straight win in the 2025 PBA Philippine Cup. The game at PhilSports Arena in Pasig saw the Road Warriors storm to an 18-point lead before surviving a furious FiberXers rally.

Robert Bolick tallied 19 points and 10 assists, while Xyrus Torres contributed 18 points including four first-half triples. NLEX’s win not only tied Magnolia at the top with a 6-1 card but also brought them closer to a quarterfinals berth in the 11-game eliminations.

Bolick and Mocon Deliver in the Clutch

Javee Mocon stepped up in crunch time with a strong drive that cushioned NLEX’s lead after Converge narrowed the gap to 78-81. Bolick followed with five consecutive points to extend the margin to 88-80 before Justine Baltazar’s triple cut it to five.

Converge had a golden opportunity with over a minute left after a Bolick turnover, but Schonny Winston’s offensive foul on Matt Nieto stalled their comeback. The game unraveled for the FiberXers from there, despite huge numbers from Justin Arana and Baltazar.

Balanced Effort Lifts NLEX to Historic Mark

Mocon and Anthony Semerad each had 10 points and provided defensive support against Converge’s frontcourt duo. Semerad also scored eight in the opening quarter to spark a 31-23 lead for the Road Warriors.

Torres caught fire early, knocking down his first four attempts from deep including one that gave NLEX a 52-42 halftime cushion. Despite a spirited challenge from Alec Stockton and Winston, Converge could not overcome the well-balanced NLEX assault.