Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 21) — The NLEX Road Warriors edged out Kia Picanto to kickoff their 2018 PBA Philippine Cup season, 119-115, Wednesday at the San Juan Arena.
Rookie sensation Kiefer Ravena lived up to the expectations as he showed the way for NLEX with 18 points, 12 assists, and seven rebounds.
JayR Reyes held a valiant stand to keep Kia in the dying minutes of the match, but a clutch Larry Fonacier triple sealed the victory for the Road Warriors.
Eric Camson tallied 24 points, while Reyes chipped in 12 points for the Picanto.
In the second game, the Magnolia Hotshots walloped the Alaska Aces, 108-95, behind the incredible performance of star guard Paul Lee.
Lee led all scorers with 30 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.
The Aces were able to dictate the tempo of the game after building a five-point edge at the end of the first quarter.
But the Hotshots clicked on all cylinders at the second period with a 36-point output.
Magnolia maintained a comfortable cushion and never looked back to notch its first win of the season.
Enforcer Vic Manuel paced Alaska with 20 points and eight rebounds.
