DeQuan Jones led the charge with 27 points as the NLEX Road Warriors snapped a four-game losing streak, crushing Phoenix Fuel Masters 104-79 to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive in the 49th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governors’ Cup. The game took place on Friday evening at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Robert Bolick contributed 19 points for the Road Warriors, who improved their record to 4-5, securing fourth place in Group B. Baser Amer added a crucial 14 points, while Enoch Valdez chipped in 10, all of which came in the first period. Valdez’s early performance helped spark a 14-0 run that turned a one-point deficit into a commanding 30-17 lead by the end of the first quarter, giving NLEX the momentum they needed to control the game.
Phoenix struggled throughout the game, culminating in their worst conference finish since taking over the Barako Bull franchise in the 2016 Commissioner’s Cup. With a 1-9 win-loss record, the Fuel Masters ended their campaign on a sour note, failing to find their rhythm against NLEX’s aggressive offense.
Jhan Nermal contributed eight points for NLEX, all in the fourth quarter, as the Road Warriors comfortably maintained their lead. Baser Amer earned Player of the Game honors for his efficient 14-point performance in just 10 minutes of action, providing a much-needed spark off the bench.
The Road Warriors now look ahead to a potential quarterfinal berth, needing Blackwater (3-5) to lose against San Miguel on Saturday to secure their spot in the playoffs.
For Phoenix, the loss marked the end of a disappointing conference, highlighting the struggles they faced after years of competitive play.
