Bolick-less NLEX squeaks past San Miguel

NLEX secured an 85-84 upset victory over San Miguel in the PBA Philippine Cup opener, spoiling San Miguel's title defense at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on Wednesday.

Despite the absence of star player Robert Bolick, who missed the game due to his father's passing, NLEX managed to pull off the win in a closely contested match.

San Miguel led 76-73 with under eight minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, but NLEX responded with a 10-2 run to take an 83-78 advantage. After Mo Tautuaa ended San Miguel's scoring drought, the Beermen went scoreless in a crucial stretch. JB Bahio's free throws extended NLEX's lead, but Don Trollano's four-point play cut the deficit to 85-84 with 11 seconds left. NLEX held on defensively after Bahio missed subsequent free throws to secure the win.

Brandon Ramirez and Jonnel Policarpio led NLEX with 16 points each, Kevin Alas added 13, and JB Bahio contributed a double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds. For San Miguel, June Mar Fajardo paced the team with 18 points and 15 rebounds, while Don Trollano and Jericho Cruz added 17 and 12 points respectively.

The final score was NLEX 85, San Miguel 84, with quarter scores of 22-25, 32-42, 66-67, and 85-84.