The NLEX Road Warriors are looking to build on their quarterfinal finish in the recent Philippine Cup as the 50th season of the PBA looms.
NLEX coach Jong Uichico saw the Kadayawan Invitational Basketball Tournament as an invaluable experience for his wards ahead of the 50th season of the PBA.
The Road Warriors topped the Davao City tournament where they locked horns with fellow PBA teams Blackwater, Converge and Phoenix.
For Uichico, it was a chance to see where they stand as a team as the Road Warriors also prepare for the upcoming draft.
“This was a good tournament for us, facing three of the teams we’ll go up against in the PBA. It gave us a chance to see where we stand and what adjustments we need heading into the Philippine Cup,” said Uichico.
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Finals Most Valuable Player Tony Semerad echoed his coach’s sentiments.
“This tournament was great for us to get our feet wet and build chemistry. Everyone got a chance to step up and contribute, which will be important once the PBA season starts,” said Semerad, who led NLEX with 16 points, 12 rebounds, two assists and a steal in the 101-84 championship-clinching win over the Bossing.
NLEX is looking to build on its gains from the previous season, where it wound up behind league leader San Miguel at the end of the elimination round.
With an 8-3 record, the Road Warriors got the twice-to-beat incentive but blew it against Rain or Shine in the quarterfinals.
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Now, NLEX only looks to get better by the conference, and the short tournament down south is a good first step towards that.
“I’m thankful to Coach Adonis (Tierra) and the rest of the staff for steadying the ship while I was away. They did a fantastic job keeping the team focused and coming up with a good game plan,” said Uichico.