NLEX repulses Blackwater in record-setting shootout

Olu Ashaolu showed his prowess inside the paint in a game where both NLEX and Blackwater lit it up from downtown. PBA Media Group
By Ivan Saldajeno

STA. ROSA, Laguna--NLEX and Blackwater engaged in a Sunday night shootout at the Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, but the former walked away the winner, 115-109.

In a PBA Governors' Cup game that saw both teams combine for a league record 37 triples, the Road Warriors broke away from the gritty Elite after going on a 9-1 run midway through the fourth quarter for their largest lead at 11, 106-95, with 5:45 to play before holding them off in the end.

Olu Ashaolu made 31 points, 10 rebounds, one assists, two steals, and one block for NLEX, which will carry a 3-0 record entering back-to-back games against San Miguel and Ginebra in Dubai this weekend.

Kiefer Ravena added 25 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, and one steal.

Ray-Ray Parks made 28 points on 6-of-11 shooting from long range, four rebounds, six assists, and two steals for Blackwater.

Paul Desiderio added 24 points on 6-of-8 treys, four rebounds, and four assists.

Marqus Blakely came close to a triple-double with 18 points, 16 rebounds, and eight assists with four steals and five blocks.

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