Robert Bolick led NLEX with his solid playmaking and timely scoring as the Road Warriors outplayed Blackwater Bossing, 84-81, to get off to a winning start in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup on Friday at the Ynares Center in Montalban, Rizal.
The Road Warriors fell behind by 16 in the first half, but managed to chip off the deficit through patient execution and defense.
Bolick starred in NLEX’s gutsy comeback, scoring 13 of his game-high 24 points in the fourth period that enabled his team to turn the tables against Blackwater Bossing.
The high-scoring guard out of San Beda added three rebounds, seven assists and four steals in a fine all-around effort.
Cady Lalanne added 22 and 16 rebounds for NLEX, while newly-acquired guard Schonny Winston had 10 points, five boards, three assists and four steals in his debut for his new team.
NLEX’s defense forced Blackwater to 20 turnovers, which the team translated to 24 points.
Sedrick Barefield led Blackwater with 18 points, import Daniel Ochefu added 16 markers and 16 boards.