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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Basketball devider Alas douses fiery Phoenix rally as NLEX gets back on track

Alas douses fiery Phoenix rally as NLEX gets back on track

Published Oct 22, 2025 10:19 pm

At A Glance

  • Kevin Alas came through with the big hits down the stretch as NLEX survived a fiery Phoenix rally to hack out an 87-81 victory in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Wednesday, Oct. 22
Kevin Alas came through with the big hits down the stretch as NLEX survived a fiery Phoenix rally to hack out an 87-81 victory in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Wednesday, Oct. 22
The veteran playmaker nailed a booming four and then a tough stepback jumper over lanky defender Kai Ballungay to help the Road Warriors overcome a last-ditch comeback effort from the hard-fighting Road Warriors.
With Phoenix cutting the NLEX lead down to just two, 74-76, behind a blistering 16-0 run, Alas came to the rescue and restored order with a huge four-pointer that triggered a crucial 7-0 run.
The Fuel Masters, though, refused to back down and still threatened, coming within two, 81-83, after back-to-back baskets from Tyler Tio and Ricci Rivero.
Alas, however, had other plans in mind, taking it hard to the basket before pulling back for the fadeaway that gave NLEX enough breathing room, 85-81, with 42 seconds left.
Alas erupted for 26 points built on two fours to carry NLEX back to the win column for a 2-1 record.
Anthony Semerad, who also had a crucial trey in the payoff period, finished with a double-double of 11 points and 12 rebounds. JB Bahio also added 11 and Xyrus Torres added 10.
Robert Bolick had nine points, nine assists and seven rebounds in his first game after missing NLEX’s first two outings.
Ricci Rivero continued his stellar start to the season with 22 points but went for naught as the Fuel Masters slid to a 1-2 slate.
Phoenix actually still had the chance to snatch the game from NLEX in the final possession but turned the ball over resulting in NLEX completing the escape.
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