PBA: SMB pounces on Robert Bolick-less NLEX to go 9-0, seal top seed

CJ Perez fired another 30-piece for the now 9-0 SMB. PBA Images
By Ivan Saldajeno

MAKATI—San Miguel took advantage of Robert Bolick's absence to cripple NLEX, 120-103, to remain unbeaten in the PBA Philippine Cup on Sunday night at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

The Beermen turned to their defense first, holding the Road Warriors to just 15 points in the opening quarter.

Both teams eventually decided to engage in a shootout in the second half, but SMB's firepower, wherein they scored 70 points in the final two periods, was just too much for NLEX.

CJ Perez led the now 9-0 Beermen, who sealed the top seed entering the quarterfinals, with 30 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

June Mar Fajardo added 20 points, 21 rebounds, one assist, and one block.

Enoch Valdez had 18 points and eight rebounds for the now 5-4 NLEX, which dearly missed Bolick following the birth of his son.

The Scores:

SAN MIGUEL 120 – Perez 30, Fajardo 20, Romeo 15, Cruz 15, Lassiter 14, Trollano 14, Enciso 6, Brondial 4, Teng 2, Tautuaa 0, Ross 0

NLEX 103 – Valdez 18, Nermal 16, Nieto 14, Anthony 12, Herndon 11, Rodger 8, Miranda 7, Semerad 7, Fajardo 4, Amer 2, Taha 2

QUARTERS: 25-15, 50-41, 83-71, 120-103

Follow him on X: @IvanSaldajeno