Alapag's PBA coaching debut ends in record-setting NLEX blowout of Macau

Jimmy Alapag enjoyed a dream start to his Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) head coaching career as NLEX overwhelmed guest team Macau, 114-75, in the Road Warriors' opening game of the PBA Season 50 Governors' Cup on Friday at the Ynares Center.

The Road Warriors turned a competitive contest into a rout with a dominant third quarter, outscoring the Giant Pandas, 36-17, to build an 81-58 lead entering the final period. NLEX continued to pour it on in the fourth, completing a franchise-record 39-point victory.

Despite the convincing win, Alapag stressed that it was only the beginning of the team's journey.

"It's almost like going home after your first day of school. We had a good first day, but we still have a long way to go," Alapag said.

"There's still a lot of work to be done. I've only been here nine or 10 days, but I'm really happy with this group. I love their competitive spirit and their willingness to play for one another."

Returning import DeQuan Jones led the balanced attack with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Kevin Alas provided a spark off the bench with 19 points to earn Player of the Game honors.

LJ Gonzales added 13 points, JB Bahio contributed 11 points and eight rebounds, and Deschon Winston chipped in 10 as five Road Warriors finished in double figures.

Robert Bolick orchestrated the offense with nine points, eight assists, and six rebounds, helping NLEX rack up 30 assists through crisp ball movement and unselfish play.

Alapag cited the team's passing as one of the biggest positives from his first game in charge.

"We had 30 assists, and to have that many in our first game is a great foundation for what we want to build moving forward," he said.

According to league statistician Fidel Mangonon III, the 39-point win is the largest margin of victory in franchise history for the Road Warriors.

NLEX returns to action on Sunday against fellow opening-day winner Terrafirma at Ynares Center II in Montalban, Rizal.

Macau was led by Damian Chongqui, who finished with 35 points, three rebounds, and three assists despite committing six turnovers. De'Vondre Perry added 26 points, 15 rebounds, three assists, and four steals as the Giant Pandas' only other double-digit scorer.

The Giant Pandas will try to bounce back on Tuesday when they take on San Miguel Beer and import George King in Antipolo.