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NLEX went for a strong fourth quarter to destroy Northport, 102-88, and burst through the win column Wednesday at the Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup restart at the University of Angeles Foundation gym in Pampanga .
Ahead only with 77-76 in the first part of the pay frame, t
The Road Warriors uncorked a fiery 19-2 run highlighted by Kiefer Ravena’s seven points to stretch a 77-76 lead on a 96-78 band with four and a half minutes left in the game.
It was only a matter of time before the Road Warriors scored their first win in four games in the bubble, as they sent the Batang pier to their fourth straight loss.
“It’s definitely harder than usual due to the unique circumstances we find ourselves in, so we’re just trying to be positive as much as we can,” said NLEX coach Yeng Guiao. “We felt that if we could keep our energy, if we could lift each other up and be positive, maybe we can still get something out of this tournament.”
Ravena exploded with 25 points, including nine in that decisive attack in the fourth quarter, along with five rebounds, four assists and two steals to lead the Road Warriors.
Big Jay-R Quiñahan controlled his temper and stayed the entire game to finish with 17 points. Kevin Alas posted a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds with six assists, while Jericho Cruz added 10 points and Michael Miranda contributed nine for NLEX.
Kevin Ferrer led Northport with 18 points, while rookie Sean Manganti had 16 points.
Sean Anthony suffered a suspected hamstring strain in the first period and did not return in the game.
Scores:
NLEX 102 – Ravena 25, Quinahan 17, Alas 16, Cruz 10, Miranda 9, Porter 8, Soyud 7, Ayonayon 6, Ighalo 2, McAloney 2, Galanza 0, Semerad 0, Paniamogan 0, Galanza 0.
NORTHPORT 88 – Manganti 16, Ferrer 18, Lanete 13, Revilla 8, Elorde 8, Standhardinger 7, Taha 6, Subido 6, Cruz 0, Anthony 0, Nabong 2.
Trimesters: 20-15, 49-39, 75-68,102-88.
