The NorthPort Batang Pier were able to escape the NLEX Road Warriors as both teams clashed in another exciting PBA game, 83-79.
Sean Anthony converted a crucial put-back shot off from a Robert Bolick miss to give his squad a two-point lead, 81-79 with only 16 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter.
The Road Warriors had the chance to either tie the game or even take the lead with a three-pointer on the next ball possession.
Coach Yeng Guiao called timeout and designed an offensive strategy for them to regain the lead.
Mike Magat took the responsibility to take the shot as he found himself momentarily open from the three-point land. Yet, Batang Pier’s import Prince Ibeh was quick to react and chased the shot launched by Magat where he successfully blocked.
The Road Warriors absorbed another defeat and now having a 0-2 slate in the 2019 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. They played today without an import as Tony Mitchell failed to secure the approval of his documents.
Kenneth Ighalo paced NLEX with his 18 points while JP Erram chipped in with 12 points and nine rebounds.
NorthPort vs NLEX Box Score
Quarters: 18-25 | 35-43 | 59-57 | 83-79
Batang Pier (83) – Bolick 18, Anthony 17, Ibeh 15, Tautuaa 14, Taha 10, Elorde 6, Grey 3
Road Warriors (79) – Ighalo 18, Soyud 12, Galanza 11, Erram 10, Fonacier 7, Tiongson 6, Paniamogan 5, Magat 4, Paredes 2, Baguio 2, Lao 2