 |
| NLEX reigns from way south. Madayaw Sports Davao |
MANILA--NLEX prevailed in the game that mattered the most, romping Blackwater, 101-84, in the final of the Kadayawan Invitational Basketball Tournament on Sunday night at the USEP Gym in Davao City.
Losing steam during their first meeting on Friday night, the Road Warriors made sure the Bossing would not have a chance to steal the win, preserving a huge lead until the end.
Anthony Semerad, who was named the Finals MVP of the PBA-sanctioned preseason event as part of the Kadayawan Festival, finished with 19 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, and one steal for NLEX.
It was a sad ending to what could have been a fairy tale run by Blackwater, notoriously known for an early exit in every PBA conference, but had a wild 3-0 start in the pocket tournament.
Meanwhile, Phoenix will not leave Davao City winless in the invitational by walloping Converge, 101-81, in the battle for third.
Raffy Verano muscled his way with 19 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and one steal for the Fuel Masters as they scored their first preseason win under new head coach Willie Wilson.
All eyes will now be on whether the FiberXers will fix their issues with Schonny Winston, who, despite being present on their bench, sat out the entire Kadayawan cagefest due to his contract concerns.
