Robert Bolick was still groping for form as he saw action for NLEX for the first time in PBA Season 50 after missing its first two games.
NLEX coach Jong Uichico was not exactly putting pressure on Robert Bolick when the latter made his debut in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Wednesday, Oct. 22.
After all, Bolick is still in grief from the untimely passing of his father, which forced him to miss the Road Warriors’ first two games.
“Siyempre, mahirap naman 'yong nangyari kay Berto, his father passed away. So hindi naman ganoon kadaling mag-recover, especially that he is playing,” said Uichico.
The Season 48 Scoring Champion wound up with only nine points on 3-for-10 scoring, but made his presence felt in the other departments with seven rebounds, nine assists and two steals as the Road Warriors hacked out an 87-81 win over Phoenix at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Malate Wednesday, Oct. 22.
“Mahirap 'yong two games na wala ka. Iba 'yon. Nakita natin sa laro ngayon na wala pa siya sa game shape or game timing,” said Uichico of his prized ward, who was obviously still trying to get the hang of playing again after flying to the US before the team’s opening game last Oct. 8.
[ALSO READ: PBA: Jong Uichico embraces ‘HaliBerto’ tag for NLEX star Robert Bolick]
Alas delivers for NLEX
Fortunately for Uichico and his wards, Kevin Alas stepped up big time as the former Gilas player uncorked 26 points, including a four-pointer and a fadeaway jumper that doused the Fuel Masters’ comeback attempt late in the fourth quarter.
He also had five rebounds, three assists and two steals for NLEX, which also bounced back from a setback to Terrafirma to score a second win in three games.
[WATCH: Kevin Alas steals show in NLEX win vs Phoenix | PBA Highlights]
Uichico could only heave a sigh of relief for his team's return to the winning column, knowing it will help Bolick in finding his rhythm.
The Road Warriors will next take on Meralco at the Ynares Center in Antipolo Sunday, Oct. 26.
Gametime is at 7:30 p.m.
“But mabuti, nanalo kami ngayon, and he’s able to get back his timing. So, next game, magiging mas ready siya,” Uichico said.
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Like most sportswriters, Jan Ballesteros once dreamed of becoming a professional hooper. But he learned the hard way that it’s not for everyone.
He continues to be involved in the sport he loves, but this time as a member of the PBA Press Corps. Aside from primarily covering the PBA, he is also assigned to cover Gilas Pilipinas.