The NLEX Road Warriors outlasted the Titan Ultra Giant Risers, 123-112, in overtime on Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. With a twice-to-beat edge already secured, NLEX looked to be going through the motions for long stretches but turned it up down the stretch and in extra time to notch its 10th win against only 2 losses in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. Titan Ultra, on the other hand, dropped its 9th game against just 2 wins.
What Happened?
After a tight opening frame, Titan Ultra created separation with a 35-25 second quarter powered by 12 points from Michael Gilmore. That push gave the Giant Risers a 59-50 lead at halftime.
Robert Bolick, the reigning PBA Press Corps Player of the Week, then took over in the third quarter, just as he did in NLEX’s win over the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. This time, he erupted for 17 points right after halftime to bring the Road Warriors to within 86-82 heading into the final frame. Titan Ultra, however, refused to fold amid Bolick’s surge, keeping pace with NLEX. The Giant Risers even had a golden opportunity to take the lead with 15 seconds remaining when Joshua Munzon got free for a wide-open layup on the fastbreak. But he muffed what would have been the go-ahead basket, leading to Gilmore splitting his charities a possession later.
Then, it was all NLEX in extra time.
Who Stood Out?
Bolick took over again in the second half, scoring and creating for his teammates. He finished with 25 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, and 2 blocks. Schonny Winston continued his strong showing for NLEX, adding 24 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 blocks while shooting an efficient 9-for-14 from the field.
Gilmore did his best for Titan Ultra, topscoring with 30 points on 10-for-20 shooting. He also had 18 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block.
3 Keys to the Game
- Bolick. His sensational second half was much needed as the Road Warriors appeared to be sleepwalking for much of the first half. Thanks to his 17-point third quarter, NLEX clawed back and put itself in position to win.
- Defense. It was not NLEX’s best effort defensively, but it locked down when it mattered, limiting Titan Ultra to 23 in the third and only 5 in overtime. The Road Warriors’ defence also forced the Giant Risers into an atrocious 37.3% shooting clip.
- Starter play. The trio of Cady Lalanne, Bolick, and Winston carried NLEX. Those three alone outscored the entire Titan Ultra starting five, 78-58.
Next Up for the PBA
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | Ninoy Aquino Stadium
Macau Black Knights vs. Phoenix Fuel Masters (5:15 p.m.)
San Miguel Beermen vs. Terrafirma Dyip (7:30 p.m.)
