NLEX Stages Remarkable Comeback To Overcome TNT’s Early Lead

In an exhilarating display of determination and tenacity, NLEX Road Warriors orchestrated an astounding 42-point turnaround to triumph over TNT Tropang Giga with a final score of 97-84 in the PBA On Tour showdown at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on July 26. 

The dramatic victory showcased NLEX’s resilience as they rebounded from a staggering 22-point deficit to secure a memorable win, bringing their record to an even 5-5.

The Road Warriors weathered a brutal onslaught from TNT’s Glenn Khobuntin and Carl Bryan Cruz, who propelled their team to a scorching 37-17 lead in the opening quarter. However, NLEX seized the advantage through their deeper rotation, exploiting their opponent’s limited lineup and gaps in TNT’s defense over the subsequent three quarters.

Despite facing a 45-41 halftime deficit, NLEX rallied ferociously, turning the tide and surging ahead 74-68 in the third quarter. Their momentum carried them through the remainder of the game, ultimately securing the hard-fought victory.

Anthony Semerad emerged as a critical player for NLEX, delivering a standout performance with 23 points, including five crucial three-pointers. Clint Dolinguez, Don Trollano, Kevin Alas, and Sean Anthony contributed significantly to the Road Warriors’ offensive firepower, achieving double-digit point tallies.

Dolinguez showcased his prowess from beyond the arc, sinking three of six three-point attempts en route to a 16-point contribution. Trollano made his presence felt with 16 points, complemented by seven assists and six rebounds, while Alas showcased his shooting accuracy with 14 points, including three successful three-point shots. Anthony’s well-rounded performance had 11 points and seven rebounds, solidifying his impact on the court.

The supporting cast of NLEX also made critical contributions, with Jake Pascual’s dominant rebounding presence amassing 18 rebounds alongside four points. Matthew Nieto displayed exceptional playmaking ability with 14 assists, six points and four rebounds, further elevating NLEX’s cohesive gameplay.

Cruz, Khobuntin, and Jaydee Tungcab spearheaded TNT’s efforts on the opposing side. Cruz’s remarkable performance yielded 26 points, while Khobuntin’s impressive double-double combined 24 points with 10 rebounds. Tungcab’s dynamic playstyle resulted in 12 points, eight rebounds, and three assists. Despite their valiant contributions, TNT’s limited roster and rotation ultimately hindered their ability to sustain their early dominance.

With this extraordinary comeback win, NLEX showcased their fighting spirit and resilience, setting the stage for an exciting PBA On Tour series climax. As the Road Warriors gear up to face the formidable Barangay Ginebra Kings in their final preseason matchup at the Ynares Arena in Pasig, fans eagerly await the thrilling showdown that promises to deliver another chapter of intense basketball action.

The boxscores:

NLEX 97 – Semerad 23, Doliguez 16, Trollano 16, Alas 13, Anthony 11, Nieto 6, Pascual 4, Guissani 3, Paniamogan 2, Adamos 2.

TNT 84 – Cruz 26, Khobuntin 24, Tungcab 12, Jopia 6, Marcelo 5, Heruela 3, Varilla 3, Reyes 3, Montalbo 2, Cuntapay 0, Ganuelas-Rosser 0.

Quarters: 17-37, 41-45, 74-68, 97-84.