NLEX holds off NorthPort, sends Batang Pier to 0-3 start

NLEX remained unbeaten in the 2023 PBA Governors' Cup after fending off NorthPort, 121-112, on Saturday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

The Road Warriors cruised to a 2-0 win-loss card after shutting down Blackwater last Wednesday while the Batang Pier absorbed their third loss in as many games to go 0-3 in the import-laced conference.

NLEX carried a six-point advantage over NorthPort into the fourth quarter, 97-91, before Batang Pier import Marcus Weathers rallied the team and tied things up at 99-all early in the frame.

Jonathon Simmons and Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser then instigated NLEX's own rally as they built a much-needed 113-105 cushion with 2:43 left to play. Weathers continued to bring life to NorthPort, completing a three-point play opportunity that made it a 115-110 affair.

Weathers still made two freebies, but Kevin Alas' layup delivered the win for the Road Warriors.

Simmons led NLEX with 33 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and one steal while Don Trollano, who also made some crucial baskets down the stretch, finished with 23 markers and two boards.

Alas and Sean Anthony, both of whom came off the bench, chipped in 18 and 16 points, respectively.

Weathers scored 30 points to lead NorthPort.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News