Jonathon Simmons makes 1 last show as NLEX pips Phoenix to go 4-0

Jonathon Simmons bids goodbye to the PBA for now but not without one final domination. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

ANTIPOLO—Jonathon Simmons vowed to lead NLEX to a 4-0 start in the PBA Governors' Cup before he returns to China to play in the Chinese Basketball Association.

Behind one final explosion, Simmons achieved his quest.

The Road Warriors kept their record unblemished before Simmons gives way for Wayne Selden after downing the Phoenix Fuel Masters, 98-94, on Saturday night at the Ynares Center.

Simmons finished with 38 points on 12-for-21 field goals, seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals for NLEX, but more importantly, his team turned things late in the third quarter and early in the fourth after going on a 22-3 run to open a 92-76 cushion with 4:40 left.

Phoenix still fought back and drew to within four, 92-96, with 18 seconds left, but Kevin Alas iced the game for NLEX after draining two free throws with eight seconds remaining.

Anthony Semerad added 16 points, seven rebounds, and one assist for the Road Warriors, who tied the Converge FiberXers at the top of the team standings ahead of Wednesday's showdown against Barangay Ginebra at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, Selden's PBA debut.

Du'Vaughn Maxwell put up 27 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists, and two blocks, while Jason Perkins added 17 points, 13 rebounds, three assists, and one block for the Fuel Masters, who fell to 1-4.

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