THE Philippine Basketball Association Press Corps took notice not just of the strong start by the NLEX Road Warriors but by the outstanding play of their young point guard Kevin Alas.
Serving as the catalyst in NLEX’s strong start, young guard Kevin Alas emerged as the first PBA Press Corps Player of the Week behind his inspired plays in the opening week of the Governors’ Cup.
The six-foot guard kicked off NLEX’s campaign by banging in 20 points, hauling down eight rebounds and issuing four assists to lead the Road Warriors past Alaska, 112-104 in the opening game of the season-ending conference.
Alas then submitted another all-around stats line of 13 points, five rebounds, one assist and one block as NLEX stopped KIA, 100-93.
No doubt Alas is inspired in large part by his girlfriend Selina Dagdag, the lovely PBA courtside reporter who even got to interview him after he won player of the game honors.
The former Letran star easily beat Phoenix guard RJ Jazul, Meralco’s Chris Newsome, Rain or Shine’s Maverick Ahanmisi and Star veteran PJ Simon for the weekly citation.
The recognition seemed to fire up Alas who then played arguably his best game this conference as he led the Road Warriors past Rain or Shine, 122-114, in double overtime to remain unbeaten in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
Alas has emerged this conference and is taking on a leadership role with the Road Warriors. He is averaging 19 points on 57 percent shooting from the field, 7.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists after three games.
And while the love of his life no doubt brings an extra bounce to his step Alas also credited new teammate Larry Fonacier for making him aware of the need to step up and play a bigger role in his team.
Alas said the veteran Fonacier took him aside to stress the need to contribute more. Fonacier told Alas he needed to mature and take a leadership role in the team.
While the advice is well placed it was still up to Alas to respond positively to the challenge.
Alas admits, he and the rest of his teammates have a long way to go. They have a new coach. A new system. And many new players who need to adjust to a new situation.
Three consecutive victories is a good start for Alas and his teammates though.