The NLEX Road Warriors continue to establish themselves as the team to beat in the 2026 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governors’ Cup after extending their unbeaten run to six games with another impressive victory.
The Road Warriors maintained their perfect start to the conference on Tuesday, August 4, overcoming defending champions TNT Tropang 5G, 88-83, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. The victory not only preserved NLEX’s spotless record but also further strengthened their credentials as legitimate title contenders in one of the league’s most competitive conferences.
Leading the way once again was import DeQuan Jones, who delivered another all-around performance with a game-high 27 points, seven rebounds, and one assist. Jones provided the offensive spark throughout the contest while also making key plays on the defensive end as NLEX held off a determined TNT side in the closing minutes.
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Despite his standout display, Jones was quick to deflect the praise toward his Filipino teammates, emphasizing that NLEX’s success has been built on collective effort rather than individual brilliance.
“We know and understand that the key to longevity is evening our workload,” Jones said after the game. “For me personally, my job is to give the team whatever it needs to win. When you play with Berto (Bolick), Schonny (Winston), and LJ (Gonzales), it’s tiring chasing them up and down, but they make things easier for me.”
Hindi pa rin natitinag ang NLEX Road Warriors matapos ang thrilling victory at si ipinakita ni DeQuan Jones pinakita ang kanyang tibay at lakas laban sa TNT Tropang 5G.#PBA50 #PBA50LID pic.twitter.com/efLFFFMLit
— Kapatid Insider (@KapatidInsider) August 4, 2026
Jones’ comments reflected the chemistry that has developed within the NLEX squad during its remarkable start to the tournament. Rather than relying solely on their import, the Road Warriors have consistently received meaningful contributions from their local core, making them one of the deepest and most balanced teams in the conference.
LJ Gonzales continued his solid run of form by contributing 11 points, while veteran floor general Robert “Berto” Bolick added 10 points and orchestrated the offense with his usual composure. Schonny Winston, JB Bahio, and Enoch Valdez each chipped in with nine points, highlighting the balanced scoring attack that has become a hallmark of coach Jimmy Alapag’s side.
That offensive balance proved crucial against a TNT team that repeatedly threatened to erase NLEX’s advantage. Every time the Tropang 5G mounted a rally, another Road Warrior stepped up with a timely basket or defensive stop, underscoring the team’s growing confidence and resilience.
With six consecutive victories to open the conference, NLEX has quickly become the biggest talking point of the Governors’ Cup. However, Jones insists that the team’s flawless record has not changed its approach or created unnecessary pressure within the locker room.
“Honestly, the only time we are reminded of the pressure is after the game,” Jones said. “In the first talk we had with coach Jimmy Alapag, he told us to have a next-play mentality. We will take every game one at a time, we will focus and hone our craft. We know what we want to achieve. Rome wasn’t built in a day.”
That mindset has become a defining characteristic of the Road Warriors’ campaign. Rather than getting caught up in their unbeaten streak or outside expectations, the team has remained committed to its process, with Alapag consistently stressing discipline, defensive intensity, and unselfish basketball.
As the conference progresses, maintaining that level of consistency will become increasingly important. Opposing teams will undoubtedly be eager to end NLEX’s winning run, making every game a fresh challenge for the league leaders.
The Road Warriors will have another opportunity to protect their perfect record when they return to the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Friday, August 7, to face the Terrafirma Dyip. With momentum firmly on their side and confidence continuing to grow, NLEX will be aiming to extend its unbeaten start to seven games and further cement its status as one of the favorites to capture the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup championship.
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