JB Bahio starred for NLEX in its win over Meralco that propelled them to a share of the top spot in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup.
NLEX coach Jong Uichico could not help but be happy with the progress that JB Bahio is showing recently.
Acquired primarily to help in the rebounding department, Bahio is also proving he can be an offensive threat.
That was none more evident in the Road Warriors’ 89-85 win over Meralco in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo Sunday, Oct. 26.
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The former San Beda standout churned out 16 points on top of seven rebounds, two assists, two blocks and a steal for NLEX, which joined Converge, TNT, Magnolia and Rain or Shine atop the standings with their similar 3-1 marks.
“He really works hard. Kaya pinagpapala siya, eh. Ang primary purpose naman ni JB is to rebound, which he is really doing very well,” said Uichico during the post-game press conference.
“Now, nagkakaroon siya ng scoring threat. I think it showed in two games. 'Yon ang next step sa pag-improve niya.”
JB Bahio answers Jong Uichico's trust with hard work
For his part, the young big said he is only repaying Uichico’s trust.
“Thankful ako kay coach Jong sa ibinigay niyang tiwala. Sinuklian ko lang 'yong tiwala niya sa hard work, sipag sa game. 'Yon lang,” said Bahio.
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Kevin Alas fired 12 points, while Robert Bolick flirted with a triple-double with his 11 points, eight rebounds and 10 assists.
Jonnel Policarpio added 10 points for the Road Warriors, who turned a 68-72 deficit to an 83-72 lead early in the fourth period via a 15-0 surge capped by Alas’ three-point play.
Meralco refused to go down without a fight, though, as it slowly fought its way back to the game with its defense.
Then, CJ Cansino poured five points in the final 1:34, the last of which was a quick drive to the hoop to close in, 87-85, with 13.3 ticks remaining.
But Bolick sealed the victory with a pair of free throws.
Cansino continued to shine for the Bolts with 24 points, five rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
Chris Newsome (21 points and 11 boards) and Cliff Hodge (14-17) each turned in a double-double.
NLEX vs Meralco Scores:
NLEX – Bahio 16, Alas 12, Bolick 11, Policarpio 10, Herndon 10, , Torres 9, Semerad 7, Fajardo 6, Nieto 5, Mocon 2, Ramirez 1
Meralco – Cansino 24, Newsome 21, Hodge 14, Caram 9, Quinto 6, Black 5, Bates 4, Comia 2, Maliksi 0, Pascual 0, Almazan 0
Quarterscores: 24-13, 46-45, 68-69, 89-85
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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.