Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 13, 2024 2:33 pm GMT
In an exhilarating finish at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum, the NLEX Road Warriors clinched their spot in the PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals by defeating the Barangay Ginebra Kings 103-99 in overtime. DeQuan Jones shone brightly, scoring an incredible 44 points, leading NLEX to victory on Sunday.
DeQuan Jones Powers NLEX to Victory
Jones’ outstanding performance was pivotal for the Road Warriors. His 44 points came on a remarkable shooting night, where he made 14 of 25 attempts from the field, including four of six from long range. This marked Jones’ third game with the team after stepping in as a replacement for Myke Henry. Coach Jong Uichico praised the decision to bring in Jones, stating, “Myke (Henry) is a great player, but we needed a different type of player that can play what [DeQuan] is giving us.”
- Key Stats for NLEX:
- DeQuan Jones: 44 points, 10 rebounds
– Robert Bolick: 16 points, 11 assists
– Anthony Semerad: 12 points, 6 rebounds
Despite holding a considerable lead and having control during the game, NLEX faced a strong comeback from Ginebra. The Kings, led by Justin Brownlee, who contributed 26 points and 12 rebounds, managed to tie the game in regulation after trailing by seven points. However, Brownlee exited the game late in the overtime period due to cramps, leaving Ginebra vulnerable.
Turning Points in the Game
As the game shifted into overtime, NLEX displayed resilience and strategy. With the game tied at 92-92, Semerad opened the extra period with back-to-back three-pointers, giving NLEX a crucial 98-94 lead. Jones then made a key three-pointer, extending their lead to 101-96 with just over two minutes left on the clock.
- Critical Moments:
– Semerad’s early threes in overtime gave NLEX momentum.
– Jones’ pivotal three-pointer solidified the lead.
Coach Uichico highlighted the team’s ability to stay composed despite the challenges throughout the game. “We just wanted to keep the game in striking distance. We had control of the regulation period, but they (Ginebra) made big plays. We missed some shots. That’s just the way the game is,” he remarked.
Ginebra’s Home Stretch Challenges
Even with the impressive performance by their players, Ginebra could not overcome the absence of their star import during the game’s critical moments. Brownlee’s departure created gaps in their strategy, leading to missed opportunities in overtime.
- Key Contributors for Ginebra:
– Justin Brownlee: 26 points, 12 rebounds
– Japeth Aguilar: 22 points, 9 rebounds
– RJ Abarrientos: 14 points
In a nail-biting end to the contest, NLEX’s lead was threatened when Ginebra’s rookie, Abarrientos, had a chance to tie the game again. However, his last-second shot failed to find the net.
NLEX’s Journey Ahead
With this victory, NLEX finished the elimination round with a record of 5-5, securing the No. 4 seed in the quarterfinals. They are set to face the top-seeded team from Group A, the TNT Tropang Giga, in a best-of-five series. The Giga ended their campaign with a dominant 99-79 win over NorthPort, showcasing their readiness for the playoffs.
- Upcoming Quarterfinal Matchup:
- NLEX will take on TNT Tropang Giga in a best-of-five series.
TNT dominated the eliminations, finishing with a top record of 8-2. Their recent performance highlighted their intent to maintain momentum as they advance into the knockout stages.
Conclusion
NLEX’s late-game heroics and DeQuan Jones’ spectacular individual performance have set the stage for an exciting quarterfinal showdown against TNT. As both teams prepare to battle, fans can anticipate another thrilling chapter in the PBA Governors’ Cup.
DeQuan Jones fights for possession against Ginebra’s Stephen Holt during their PBA Governors’ Cup matchup.
As the playoffs get closer, every game is really important. Teams are getting ready for this exciting time, and everyone will be watching Jones and the Road Warriors. They are hoping to make a strong push in the playoffs!
