NLEX defeats Meralco 89-85 to tie for PBA Philippine Cup lead

The NLEX Road Warriors defeated the Meralco Bolts, 89-85, to forge a five-way tie for the lead in the PBA Philippine Cup.

This victory marked NLEX's second consecutive win and snapped Meralco's three-game streak.

JB Bahio led NLEX with 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and a steal, while Kevin Alas contributed 12 points, four boards, and a steal.

Robert Bolick nearly notched a triple-double with 11 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds, plus a steal.

Despite NLEX holding an 11-point lead in the second half, Meralco mounted a comeback, cutting the deficit to two points.

Brandon Bates sparked an 11-2 Meralco run in the fourth quarter.

Robert Bolick secured the win for NLEX with two free throws in the final seconds.

Bong Quinto tried a 4-point attempt but missed, sealing the Road Warriors' victory.

CJ Cansino paced the Bolts with 24 points, five rebounds, three assists, and two blocks, while Chris Newsome recorded a double-double of 21 points and 11 rebounds.

NLEX improved to 3-1, while Meralco dropped to 3-3.