NLEX erupted for 69 points in the third quarter as it humiliated Macau, 114-75, and hand Jimmy Alapag a triumphant coaching debut on opening night of the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City on Friday.
DeQuan Jones scored 23 points and grabbed 11 rebounds while Kevin Alas added 19 points to power the Road Warriors to an explosive conference start.
Robert Bolick, a major contender for the season's Most Valuable Player award, collected nine points, six rebounds and eight assists.
The 39-point victory easily provides a confidence boost-booster for NLEX, which is looking to redeem itself after putting its top seed and twice-to-beat incentive to waste after losing to TNT in the Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals.
The quick playoff exit paved the way for Alapag’s entry by taking the spot of Jong Uichico, who has served as the team’s head coach the past two years.
Damian Chongqui led Macau, who are now known as Golden Pandas, with 35 points, spiked by seven triples.
Import De’Vondre Perry chipped in 25 points and 16 boards.
