PBA: NLEX shuts door on Phoenix's playoff hopes, bolsters Top 4 bid

Javee Mocon stepped up for NLEX as they ousted Phoenix. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MAKATI--NLEX put a quick end to Phoenix's last gasp for a playoff spot in the PBA Philippine Cup after a 105-95 win on Sunday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Robert Bolick spearheaded the Road Warriors' hot start, wherein he scored 15 of their 32 points in the first quarter.

Javee Mocon then helped NLEX sustain its solid start despite the gallant stand from Phoenix, which needed to win its last three games to keep its quarterfinal hopes alive.

Mocon finished with 23 points on 10-of-15 shooting, nine rebounds, and three assists for the Road Warriors, which moved up to solo second at 7-2, a half-game behind the Magnolia Hotshots, who will play Barangay Ginebra later Sunday.

Bolick added 20 points on 7-of-13 shooting, including 5-of-5 inside the arc, eight rebounds, seven assists, and one block.

Jason Perkins led the Fuel Masters, who are now officially eliminated from playoff contention after falling to 2-7, with 28 points, seven rebounds, and three assists.

Kai Ballungay, Tyler Tio, and RR Garcia each added 11 points, with Ballungay also grabbing 10 rebounds.

With Phoenix's loss, Ginebra, TNT, and Rain or Shine automatically clinched quarterfinal spots, completing the playoff cast in the process.

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