The NLEX Road Warriors built a lead of as much as 17 points against TNT Tropang 5G, but in the fourth quarter, their advantage slowly disappeared as TNT battled back to tie the game at 74‑all.
NLEX, though, did enough to fend off TNT, with Ljay Gonzales and Schonny Winston both coming up with defensive stops that ultimately sealed the victory for the Road Warriors.
For Gonzales, coming up clutch on defense was simply about giving his all‑out effort.
“Ginawa ko lang ‘yung 100% ko, ‘yung best ko,” Gonzales told Rebanse after helping NLEX win its sixth straight to start the PBA Governors’ Cup. “Nagtrabaho lang ako, ‘yun lang naman ang goal ko na as a player, gusto mo rin maglaro. Binibigyan ako ng time nina Coach [Jimmy Alapag] na bantayan sina Kuya Rey [Nambatac].”
Aside from coming up big on the defensive end, the rookie guard also made his presence felt offensively, leading NLEX’s locals with 11 points while adding 2 rebounds and 4 assists.
Making the Most Out of His Playing Time
Aware that he’s on a team loaded with guards, Gonzales is simply grateful for the minutes he is getting and is making the most out of every opportunity given to him.
“Bihira lang naman din akong gamitin na ganun kahaba ulit so ano lang, ine‑enjoy ko lang and pinakita ko lang kung ano ‘yung makakaya ko,” he added.
Gonzales played 24 minutes against Tropang 5G, which is normal given Alapag’s deep rotation every game. But the rookie isn’t complaining—he is instead just doing his job.
“Siyempre ready lang naman ako lagi. Thankful lang naman ako na ganun ‘yung sitwasyon na ginagamit ako. ‘Yung mga ganung sitwasyon kasi, once in a lifetime lang dumating sa buhay mo ‘yun, so kailangan mong trabahuhin,” said Gonzales.
Gonzales is earning his minutes, all right, and NLEX is winning as well. They will next try to continue their unbeaten run in this PBA Governors’ Cup on Friday, August 7, when they face the Terrafirma Dyip at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Better believe Gonzales is working hard for that rematch.
