Bolick powers Road Warriors to thrilling win over Gin Kings

Robert Bolick stepped up when it mattered most, outshining Justin Brownlee and leading NLEX to a thrilling 118-113 win over Barangay Ginebra in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup on Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Brownlee, who exploded for 46 points, seemed poised to carry Ginebra to victory, helping the Gin Kings build a 112-106 lead with just over four minutes left. But Bolick had other plans.

With the game on the line, the NLEX guard nailed a clutch three-pointer with 46.1 seconds remaining, giving the Road Warriors a 115-113 advantage. Ginebra couldn’t respond, including a crucial miss from Scottie Thompson. Bolick then sealed the win from the free-throw line, scoring NLEX’s final three points in the last 25 seconds.

Bolick finished with 32 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, scoring the team’s last six points to help NLEX bounce back from a previous loss to TNT.

Head coach Jong Uichico praised the significance of the win over a veteran team like Ginebra.

“Ginebra is a tough opponent with championship experience. This should—hopefully—help us take our game to the next level and learn how to play in close games,” Uichico said.

Import Cady Lalanne added a strong inside presence with 28 points and 14 rebounds, including a key hook shot that cut Ginebra’s lead to 113-112 with 1:23 remaining. Just before that, Brownlee split his free throws, setting up NLEX’s late-game rally.

Bolick later credited his preparation for the game-winning shot.

“Hard work and preparation. I’ve been practicing this shot,” said the Ormoc native after draining the go-ahead triple over RJ Abarrientos.

Deschon Winston contributed 21 points, with 13 coming in the third quarter, while L-Jay Gonzales added 14 as NLEX improved to 3-1, joining Terrafirma and Phoenix in a three-way tie for second place.

For Ginebra, Abarrientos and Japeth Aguilar each scored 14 points, while Troy Rosario and Stephen Holt chipped in 11 and 10, respectively.

Despite leading by as much as 13 points early, the Gin Kings faltered down the stretch and will now look to bounce back in their upcoming matchup against Converge.