NLEX foils Ginebra to clinch QF berth
Robert Bolick PBA PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines: NLEX played with strong resolve to repulse Barangay Ginebra, 76-72, clinching a PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinal spot in the process at the close of the eliminations Sunday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Richie Rodgers sealed the win with two foul shots in the dying seconds as the Road Warriors checked a four-game losing skid and more importantly, secure a spot in the eight-team quarterfinals.
NLEX will enter the opening round of the playoffs as the sixth seed and will face off with third seed and sister team Meralco in a best-of-three quarterfinal affair.
Robert Bolick led the Road Warriors with 25 points, six rebounds and eight assists.
The Gin Kings closed the elims with a 7-4 record, and will enter the quarterfinals as the second seed.
Ginebra will face long-time rival Magnolia in an early playoff clash as the Hotshots to no. 7 seed following their 98-93 loss to the TNT Tropang Giga earlier in the day.
Magnolia finished the elimination round with a 6-5 slate.
Ginebra enjoys a twice-to-beat advantage over Magnolia.