NLEX stuns defending champion San Miguel, dedicates win to grieving Bolick

NLEX Road Warriors secured a narrow 85-84 victory over defending champion San Miguel Beermen in the 2025-26 PBA Philippine Cup, denying them a winning start in the game held at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, Philippines. The win was particularly emotional as NLEX rallied in the absence of star player Robert Bolick, who missed the match following the death of his American father just days prior.

Key contributions from Jonnel Policarpio, Brandon Ramirez, and JB Bahio were crucial in overcoming Bolick's absence, with Policarpio and Ramirez each scoring 16 points, and Bahio achieving a double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds. NLEX coach Jong Uichico dedicated the game to Bolick's father, explaining that Bolick had intended to play but chose to be with his family during this difficult time, highlighting the team's collective effort in his stead.

The game featured a dramatic comeback, with NLEX erasing a double-digit deficit to take an 85-80 lead in the final moments, thanks to Bahio's free throws. However, San Miguel nearly snatched the win when Don Trollano hit a four-pointer to close the gap to one point, and Bahio missed subsequent foul shots. In the end, Trollano's time-management error led to him passing up a potential game-winning shot and turning the ball over as the buzzer sounded, sealing NLEX's thrilling victory.

Additional support for NLEX came from Kevin Alas, who contributed 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals, and Richie Rodger with 9 points. For San Miguel, newly crowned nine-time MVP June Mar Fajardo led with 18 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 assists but was limited to just 2 points in the critical fourth quarter, while Trollano finished with 17 points, 5 assists, and 3 steals, and Jericho Cruz added 12 points and 6 rebounds.