Attacking systematically, the NLEX Road Warriors slowly but surely picked Meralco apart, 105-99, for its second straight win to get the early lead in the 2019 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum earlier.
Five Road Warriors scored in twin-digits led by JR Quiñahan’s 19 points while Olu Ashaolu delivered a steady double-double with 17 points and 13 rebounds.
Kenneth Ighalo scored 13 of his 15 points in the first half to guide NLEX to a fast start. Kiefer Ravena had the same point production along with eight rebounds and eight assists for a near triple-double. Jericho Cruz added 10 more markers for NLEX.
The Road Warriors improved to 2-0 for solo first while Meralco slipped to 1-1.
Using a balanced attack, the Road Warriors were able to take control of the game as they neutralized the Bolts’ defense.
A rousing third quarter run enabled NLEX to post a big lead.
Ravena’s triple at the 2:21 mark of the third gave the Road Warriors a huge 20-point bubble, 83-63.
There was no looking back from there as NLEX sailed through the rest of the way.
The Bolts tried their best by attempting a late rally but only managed to get as close as four points at one point in the closing minutes.
Allen Durham was his usual self for Meralco, taking game-high honors with 32 points and 19 boards for his own double-double.
NLEX already opened up an 11-point lead, the game’s first double-digit edge, in the second, 40-29, at the 9:38 mark.
Its lead stood at nine, 55-46, at the turn, thanks to Ighalo’s early offense in the first 24 minutes.
The scores:
NLEX Road Warriors 105 – JR Quiñahan 19, Olu Ashaolu 17, Kiefer Ravena 15, Kenneth Ighalo 15, Larry Fonacier 11, Jericho Cruz 10, Bong Galanza 9, Philip Paniamogan 5, Michael Miranda 2, Cyrus Baguio 2, Raul Soyud 0, Kyles Lao 0, Papot Paredes 0, Jansen Rios 0.
Meralco Bolts 99 – Allen Durham 32, Raymond Almazan 17, Baser Amer 15, Anjo Caram 8, Chris Newsome 7, Nico Salva 6, Bong Quinto 5, Reynel Hugnatan 5, Bryan Faundo 2, John Nard Pinto 2, Mike Tolomia 0, Trevis Jackson 0, Ranidel De Ocampo 0.
Quarter scores: 28-25, 55-46, 83-68, 105-99.