Robert Bolick, JB Bahio Lead NLEX’s Fiery Bounce-back Win Over Rain or Shine

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by Lou Reyes

NLEX star Robert Bolick shoots a jumper over Rain or Shine's Gian Mamuyac.
NLEX star Robert Bolick shoots a jumper over Rain or Shine's Gian Mamuyac. Photo: PBA Images.

NLEX came out with guns blazing, shrugging off a previous blowout loss to dominate Rain or Shine, 105-91, in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup on Saturday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Robert Bolick put on another offensive masterclass, erupting for 28 points, while JB Bahio delivered a solid double-double performance with 17 points and 13 boards as the Road Warriors cruised to a commanding win that pushed them to a 5-2 slate, tying the Elasto Painters for second place in the standings.

Coach Jong Uichico’s squad wasted no time asserting control, burying the Elasto Painters with crisp ball movement and relentless pace. NLEX’s shooting was on point all night, hitting nearly 49% from the field and connecting on 10 triples, including a dagger buzzer-beater by Xyrus Torres to end the third quarter with an 83-63 lead, a highlight that sent the NLEX bench roaring.

“We needed to respond after the Ginebra game,” Uichico said. “Against Rain or Shine, you can’t rely only on defense. They average over 100 points, so our offense had to match their energy, and the guys delivered.”

NLEX's Xyrus Torres (77) and JB Bahio (18) produced impressive numbers against Rain or Shine.
NLEX's Xyrus Torres (77) and JB Bahio (18) produced impressive numbers against Rain or Shine. Photo: PBA Images.

The Road Warriors’ offensive rhythm returned in full force after a stinging 104-74 loss to Barangay Ginebra last Sunday. Bolick orchestrated the attack masterfully, dictating tempo and scoring from all angles, while Bahio and Torres provided consistent support.

Rain or Shine, meanwhile, sorely missed key players Keith Datu and Caelan Tiongson, both sidelined with injuries, along with guard Stanley Pringle. The absence of their interior anchors left a huge gap that NLEX eagerly exploited, pounding the paint and controlling the glass.

Despite the loss, Jhonard Clarito fought valiantly for the Elasto Painters, dropping 26 points and hauling in eight rebounds. Veterans Gabe Norwood and Adrian Nocum chipped in 12 apiece, but Rain or Shine’s shortened rotation simply couldn’t keep up with NLEX’s firepower.

The defeat snapped Rain or Shine’s three-game winning streak and handed TNT sole possession of first place at 5-1.

Rain or Shine's Jhonard Clarito (22) led the Elasto Painters in scoring with 26.
Rain or Shine's Jhonard Clarito (22) led the Elasto Painters in scoring with 26. Photo: PBA Images.

With the win, NLEX reminded everyone that their hot start this conference is no fluke. And with Bolick playing MVP-level basketball, the Road Warriors are clearly back in the hunt for top-tier contention.

The Scores:

NLEX 105 - Bolick 28, Bahio 17, Torres 15, Policarpio 10, Fajardo 10, Herndon 6, Mocon 6, Roger 6, Alas 3, Capulong 2, Nieto 2, Ramirez 0.

Rain or Shine 91 - Clarito 26, Norwood 12, Nocum 12, Santillan 10, Ildefonso 9, Asistio 9, Malonzo 7, Mamuyac 6, Lemetti 0, Belga 0, Caracut 0.

Quarterscores: 26-28, 52-47, 83-63, 105-91