MANILA, Philippines – Kiefer Ravena poured in 25 points and 8 assists to help the NLEX Road Warriors draw first blood in their best-of-3 quarterfinals series against the Alaska Aces, 105-99, in the 2018 PBA Philippine Cup at the Mall of Asia Arena Monday, March 5.
NLEX, aside from inching a win closer to the semifinals, clinched its first playoff victory in franchise history.
The Road Warriors were down 92-96 with less than 3 minutes left before Larry Fonacier completed a 4-point play for the equalizer.
Ravena took over from since then as he assisted Mike Miranda before burying a layup with 18.8 seconds remaining to give NLEX a 100-96 advantage with 18.8 seconds left.
Alaska threatened a late comeback after Simon Enciso drilled a triple with 9 ticks remaining, 99-101, but could not complete it as Ravena put the Road Warriors ahead by two possessions with his freebies.
Fonacier finished with 18 points and 9 rebounds while Kevin Alas chipped in 17 points, 6 assists and 5 boards in the win.
Chris Banchero paced the Aces with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 steals.
Alaska has yet to win a game against NLEX since Yeng Guiao took over the coaching reins for the Road Warriors.
NLEX and Alaska meet again on Wednesday, March 7, at the Araneta Coliseum.
– Rappler.com