NLEX import Mike Watkins goes for a dunk against Hong Kong Eastern in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—NLEX had its back against the wall on Wednesday and import Mike Watkins muscled the Road Warriors out of harm’s way to live another day.
With so much on the line—including a chance to fight for a playoff spot—the Road Warriors subdued guest team Hong Kong Eastern, 94-76, at Araneta Coliseum to stay in contention in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
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“It’s not over until it’s over. As long as we get a chance to fight, we’ll continue to fight,” said Watkins.
READ: PBA: Robert Bolick, NLEX beat Rain or Shine to keep playoff bid alive
“We know we have a chance and we have a great team to take us there. They believed in me and I believed in them.”
Watkins paved the way for NLEX with a monster double-double of 41 points and 14 rebounds in 46 minutes.
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The 6-foot-9 big man also did his part on the defensive end, holding Eastern import Chris McLaughlin to a tough 8-of-19 shooting night.
READ: PBA: NLEX snaps 5-game skid with win over Phoenix
“Today was a must-win to get us to the playoffs and I wasn’t ready to go home yet so I had to give the best energy I had.”
“I believe if I play defense well enough, the offense will dictate itself and the ball will just go into the basket.”
With the win, NLEX leveled its record to 6-6 ahead of a crucial clash with Magnolia in the final game of their elimination round campaign.
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