The NLEX Road Warriors (2-0) turned in a complete team effort to outlast the Magnolia Hotshots (0-2) in a 112–105 victory. Meanwhile, the shorthanded Phoenix Fuel Masters (2-0) stayed in top form, dominating the Titan Ultra Giant Risers (0-2) in a 109–76 win on March 15.
TOP PERFORMERS OF THE DAY:
James Dickey III PHX C 17 PTS | 17 REB | 4 BLK | 68.4 FPS
The big man continues to dominate the paint, recording another strong double-double while also contributing as a playmaker. But he made an even bigger impact today with his defense, racking up a game-high eight stocks. The only downside is his poor free-throw shooting. Still, he should be able to keep producing at a high level moving forward.
Earl Michael Gilmore TGR C 27 PTS | 20 REB | 4 STL | 60.5 FPS
Though Gilmore has been producing at an elite level, his inefficiency has become a major issue. He had a rough offensive showing today, attempting more shots than the points he scored, including going 2-for-10 from distance while also turning the ball over 10 times. But with the team lacking dependable scoring options, he should continue to carry a large offensive load.
Deschon Winston NLX SG 14 PTS | 6 REB | 6 AST | 38.2 FPS
Despite the inefficiency, Winston still delivered offensively, reaching double figures in scoring while hitting a clutch three-pointer to seal today’s win. He also made a strong impact in other areas, finishing with a team-high in assists and steals. Overall, it was a great outing, but the team still needs better offensive execution from him in the coming games.
Evan Heinrich Nelle PHX PG 14 PTS | 8 AST | 3 STL | 34.6 FPS
Nelle had a strong offensive game while continuing to provide solid contributions for his position. He should remain an important part of the rotation at this conference, so more performances like this could follow.
Ricci Paolo Rivero PHX SF 18 PTS | 9 REB | 2 STL | 33.8 FPS
Limited to just 10 points in their conference debut, Rivero found his offensive rhythm today and led the team in scoring, though he was far from efficient and committed seven turnovers. With several key players injured, he’ll have to shoulder a much larger offensive load for the time being.
Jerom Lastimosa MAG PG 23 PTS | 4 AST | 2 STL | 33.4 FPS
Lastimosa stood out offensively, converting 9-of-11 from the field to lead all locals in scoring. It marked the fifth time he has reached the 20-point mark since the last conference. With the team struggling early in this conference, they will need him to maintain this level of production or perhaps more.
Robert Lee Bolick NLX PG 14 PTS | 5 REB | 5 AST | 32.5 FPS
The superstar guard had a modest outing by his standards but still contributed in multiple ways. He had a few games like this last conference, though he’s certainly capable of turning it up whenever needed.
Louelljay Gonzales NLX PG 13 PTS | 7 REB | 2 STL | 30.9 FPS
The rookie struggled badly in his PBA debut, but he bounced back in a major way today, showcasing his offensive upside while also finishing second on the team in rebounding. He’s had a large role in his first two games of the conference and should continue to do so going forward.
Fran Louie Yu TGR PG 9 PTS | 6 AST | 4 STL | 30.4 FPS
Despite going 0-for-5 from beyond the arc, Yu remained productive in his role. With the team struggling, they’ll need him to step up offensively as well.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT OF THE DAY:
Joshua Eugene Munzon TGR PG 9 PTS | 4 REB | 7 TO | 6.8 FPS
Munzon had a highly disappointing performance, marking the first time since the last conference that he scored fewer than 10 points and also committed his most turnovers. He’s been one of the better two-way players in the league in recent conferences and should have much better performances in the coming games.
