A record-setting performance from Don Trollano lifted NLEX to a victory on PBA Thursday.
Trollano, NLEX victorious in high-scoring affair
Behind a 44-point detonation from star forward Don Trollano, the NLEX Road Warriors prevailed over the Terrafirma Dyip with a 142-125 victory. It was a high-scoring affair that saw Trollano make a record-setting nine consecutive three-pointers, breaking the record of eight straight triples set by Allain Caidic, Renren Ritualo, and Von Pessumal.
NLEX import Wayne Selden Jr. also poured in 38 markers, as the Road Warriors improved to a 7-3 record. Meanwhile, Terrafirma drops to a 2-7 slate.
Main Takeaways
-
With shooting splits of 51% FG, 44% 3P, and 81% FT, Don Trollano is producing 15.3 points on an excellent 63% True Shooting in the Governors' Cup. He and Kevin Alas have been consistently good this conference, and they just might surprise teams come playoff time.
-
Lost in Trollano's 44-point explosion was Juami Tiongson's 38-point outing. Already one of the highest-scoring locals in the conference, Tiongson went 42% from three (6-14 3P) against NLEX and only had two turnovers the whole game.
Magnolia clinches playoff spot
The Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots secures a seat in the playoffs via a resounding 129-109 win over the NorthPort Batang Pier. It was just another day in the office for Antonio Hester, who hauled in his usual double-double numbers of 28 points and 14 rebounds. Mark Barroca and Rome Dela Rosa both came off the bench to combine for 40 markers.
The win elevates Magnolia to a 5-4 record, with NorthPort dropping to a 2-7 slate. NorthPort now has to win its remaining two games to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Main Takeaways
-
Mark Barroca is quietly turning it up for Magnolia. Since the team's first win of the conference on February 10, Barroca is averaging 17.3 points across six games. Barroca has been perfectly playing the sixth man role for the Hotshots.
-
The NorthPort interior defense was again lacking in this game. Magnolia pounded NorthPort with 66 points inside the paint. A lack of rim deterrence and protection has pulled down NorthPort to the worst defensive rating in the league.
