PBA: NLEX gets share of top spot as late errors haunt Converge's comeback bid

Robert Bolick delivered another solid all-around game for streaking NLEX. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

QUEZON CITY--NLEX survived an endgame scare from Converge for an 88-83 win in their PBA Philippine Cup battle on Friday night at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

The Road Warriors were on the verge of a blowout win after opening a 76-60 lead at the end of the third quarter.

However, the FiberXers came alive in the fourth quarter and were just down five with 1:47 remaining.

Schonny Winston had a chance to cut the deficit further after slamming the ball off a steal, but he was called for an offensive foul after he extended his leg while trying to prevent the defense of Matt Nieto.

Winston made up for it by completing another steal, only for Alec Stockton to turn the ball over again.

NLEX still kept the door open for Converge to come close as Xyrus Torres missed a three-pointer, but MJ Garcia muffed his own triple, and the Road Warriors eventually milked the remaining time on the clock.

Robert Bolick led NLEX, which now tied Magnolia at the top of the standings at 6-1, with 19 points, seven rebounds, 10 assists, one steal, and one block, while Torres added 18 points and four rebounds.

Balti Baltazar led Converge, which dropped to 5-4, with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and one block, while Justin Arana added 12 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists.

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