![]() |
Mike Watkins dunks over Donovan Smith. PBA Images |
MANILA--NLEX used a third-quarter blast to pull away from Phoenix for a 108-94 win in their all-important PBA Commissioner's Cup game on Sunday night at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
Forced to play most of the third without the foul-troubled Mike Watkins, the Road Warriors exploded for 41 points in the said period to regain control of a game that could significantly impact both teams' last chance to make the quarterfinals.
They then held the Fuel Masters to just 21 points in the final quarter to help seal the deal.
Held to just four points and four assists against TNT, Robert Bolick bounced back with a 26-point and nine-assist showing for NLEX, which finally snapped a long losing streak at five to move up to a tie with Magnolia for ninth place at 4-6, a half-game behind San Miguel for eighth place.
Watkins added 22 points, 18 rebounds, and one steal as he eventually reimposed his will inside after Donovan Smith got into foul trouble as well in the third quarter.
Smith, despite his own foul trouble, led Phoenix with 36 points, 14 rebounds, three assists, and two blocks, but he could not save the team from dropping to 3-7.
Follow him on X: @IvanSaldajeno