NLEX Road Warriors opened Jimmy Alapag’s coaching tenure with a 114-75 victory over Macau at the Ynares Center on July 10, 2026. The Road Warriors built a 45-36 halftime edge and never looked back, posting a 36-22 third‑quarter run before sealing the game with a 33‑17 final period.
How did NLEX secure the win?
Alapag’s squad jumped to a 18-13 lead in the opening quarter, then stretched the margin to 45-36 by halftime. In the third quarter, NLEX outscored the Giant Pandas 36-22, turning a solid lead into a commanding one. The fourth quarter saw Kevin Alas pour in 10 of his 19 points, while import DeQuan Jones added 23 points and 11 rebounds, helping the team finish the night at 114 points.
Who stood out for NLEX?
Kevin Alas was the local spark, delivering 19 points and a decisive 10‑point burst in the final period. Import DeQuan Jones posted a double‑double with 23 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring the paint. Supporting contributions came from Gonzales (13), Bahio (11), and Winston (10). The depth of the roster allowed Alapag to rotate fresh legs, a point he highlighted after the game.
What did Macau’s stars do?
Macau’s Damian Chongqui exploded for 35 points, drilling seven triples, while import De'Vondre Perry recorded 26 points and 15 rebounds. Despite their effort, the Giant Pandas were limited to just 17 points in the fourth quarter, unable to close the gap.
What does this mean for the Governors’ Cup?
The 114-75 blowout improves NLEX’s standing in the Governors’ Cup and showcases the team’s depth, a factor Alapag believes will be vital as the schedule tightens. The win also gives the new coach confidence in his system, especially after uncertainty about Macau’s lineup in their previous tune‑up.
What’s next for NLEX?
With the victory, NLEX looks to maintain momentum heading into the next matchup. Alapag’s emphasis on defensive intensity and balanced scoring should keep the Road Warriors competitive, while opponents will need to adjust to the team’s versatile rotation.
Scoreline: NLEX 114 – Jones 23, Alas 19, Gonzales 13, Bahio 11, Winston 10, Bolick 9, Ramirez 6, Torres 6, Gamboa 5, Valdez 5, Capulong 4, Nieto 3. Macau 75 – Chongqui 35, Perry 26, Cao 4, Liu 4, Lam 4, Li 2.