PBA: Ashaolu, Erram lift NLEX to victory over Rain or Shine

NLEX beat Rain or Shine, 100-97, last Friday in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup thanks to the efforts of new import Olu Ashaolu and Poy Erram.

Ashaolu had 26 points and 13 rebounds, and Erram had 13 points including a key block against Rain or Shine import Denzel Bowles as NLEX secured a 2-7 card following the victory.

Ashaolu had an auspicious return for the NLEX as he was brought in early by the team as part of the preparations for the Governors’ Cup.

Ashaolu scored that gave NLEX a 98-94 lead. After Kris Rosales converted a triple, NLEX came up empty handed on the next possession. However, Erram made a defensive game when the PBA Press Corps Defensive Player of the Year last year swatted away a lay-up by Denzel Bowles late in the game.

Rain or Shine suffered its fourth loss in seven outings.

“We are getting ourselves ready for the next conference. In the meantime, we will try to get as many wins as we can,” NLEX coach Yeng Guiao said.

Scores:

NLEX 100 – Ashaolu 26, Cruz 15, Erram 13, Ighalo 13, Tiongson 8, Soyud 7, Varilla 6, Paniamogan 5, Quinahan 5, Lao 2, Baguio 0, Paredes 0, Galanza 0.

RAIN OR SHINE 97 – Bowles 35, Rosales 18, Daquioag 13, Mocon 12, Belga 9, Nambatac 7, Norwood 2, Alejandro 1, Borboran 0, Ponferada 0, Torres 0.

Quarterscores: 23-23, 51-38, 81-64, 100-97.

PHOTO: PBA Images