Robert Bolick exploded for 32 points as NLEX fended off a brave Terrafirma stand to take a 104-85 victory in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Tuesday, Dec. 3.

The high-scoring guard came out guns blazing in the opening frame and never cooled down as he also drilled timely hits to keep the Dyip at bay and pick up the Road Warriors’ second straight victory after opening the conference with a loss.

Bolick poured 13 of his total in the first quarter as he led NLEX to a huge lead that went to as high as 25 points and then had 10 in the final frame to help his team avert another huge collapse when Terrafirma came within single digits.

Mike Watkins dominated inside the paint with a monster double-double of 26 points and 30 rebounds, taking full advantage of his size and heft against the Terrafirma frontline which opted to sit its import Ryan Richards and just go all-Filipino.

It almost paid dividends for the Dyip though as after trailing 67-42 made a furious rally in the second half, allowing them to cut the lead down to just seven several times, the last instance at 81-88, with 4:49 left.

Bolick, however, presided over a 10-0 spurt to finally put the game away for NLEX.

Xyrus Torres and Anthony Semerad provided support with 15 and 13, respectively, for the Road Warriors who welcomed the return of Kevin Alas with the big win.

Vic Manuel, once again, led Terrafirma with 22 points – 18 of which he poured in the third frame to ignite the fight back for the Dyip.

Kevin Ferrer and Aljun Melecio had 10 apiece but not enough for their team which remained winless through three games.