Objective:
NLEX Road Warriors and Blackwater Bossing aim to bounce back from disappointing losses in their opening games as they clash in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. Both teams need adjustments to recover and get on the winning track.
Recap of Previous Losses
NLEX Road Warriors:
- Defeat: 87-114 loss to NorthPort.
- Struggles:
- Poor shooting (12-of-35) and turnovers (14 in the middle quarters, 21 overall).
- Fell into a deep 67-91 deficit by the fourth quarter.
- Key Player Performance:
- Import Mike Watkins: 29 points and 19 rebounds.
- Local support was lacking; Robert Bolick struggled with only 3 points on 1-of-11 shooting and did not play in the fourth quarter.
Blackwater Bossing:
- Defeat: 100-118 loss to Magnolia.
- Struggles:
- Weak second and third quarters (21-14 and 82-69 stretches in favor of Magnolia).
- Shooting disparity: 17-of-47 compared to Magnolia’s 20-of-32.
- Key Player Performance:
- George King: Game-high 42 points but an inefficient 16-of-36 shooting.
- Sedrick Barefield: 24 points on 8-for-20 shooting.
Areas Needing Improvement
- Offense:
- Both teams struggled with inefficient shooting and limited scoring support outside their primary scorers.
- Defense:
- Both teams failed to contain their opponents’ surges, particularly in the middle quarters.
Conclusion
To secure a victory, both teams must improve offensive efficiency and defensive intensity. The performances of key players like Mike Watkins, George King, and Robert Bolick will be pivotal in determining the outcome.
GAME HIGHLIGHTS
