NLEX’s Robert Bolick and Jonel Policarpio celebrate during a win over Magnolia in the PBA Philippine Cup.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—NLEX star Robert Bolick was pretty sentimental after defeating powerhouse Magnolia in the PBA Philippine Cup Friday night.
Bolick couldn’t be prouder for his teammates after the Road Warriors clinched the first twice-to-beat incentive with a comeback victory over the Hotshots.
READ: PBA: NLEX claims first twice-to-beat, rallies past Magnolia
‘KAMI NAMAN ‘YONG PINAKA-HARDWORKING’
Robert Bolick lauds his team for clinching a twice-to-beat advantage for the Philippine Cup Playoffs. @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/eqLGVVOZvF
— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) June 6, 2025
“When you look at the top eight, we have the most rookies but we’re the most hardworking team so I’m so proud of my teammates,” said Bolick at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
“I don’t even think of myself anymore. I just want to see them thrive and I’m happy to see that.”
Bolick finished with an all-around game of 25 points, nine rebounds and five assists while registering a stellar 53.3 percent field goal shooting clip.
But it wasn’t just the former Northport sniper who wreaked havoc on the Hotshots.
READ: PBA quarterfinal cast complete after NLEX ousts Phoenix
Rookies Xyrus Torres, Brandon Ramirez and Jonnel Policarpio also played vital roles in the win that saw NLEX rise from 19 down.
Torres exploded for 22 points, Ramirez tallied a near double-double of 18 points and nine rebounds while Policarpio returned from injury to contribute 12 points and six rebounds off the bench as the Road Warriors upped their league-best mark to 8-2.
“They’re making names here in the PBA and I’m glad to be one of the names that helped them do that. Moving forward, I hope we always play like this so everyone thrives,” said the San Beda product.
“Lumalaki din suweldo nila,” he added in jest. (They also get bigger salaries)
The Road Warriors shoot for the top seeding on Wednesday against the NorthPort Batang Pier at the same venue.