Despite its incredible start, NLEX will parade a new import as it shoots for a fifth win in the 2019 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup.
The Road Warriors (4-1) will parade former NBA player Manny Harris when they go up against Columbian Dyip (3-2) at 4:30 p.m. at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City today.
Right after, defending champion Magnolia (3-2) looks to arrest a two-game slide when it clashes with Blackwater (1-3) at 7 p.m.
NLEX tries to regain solo second as it is currently tied with San Miguel (4-1) for the spot.
The Road Warriors are enjoying one of their best starts in franchise history, having won four of their first five games with star Kiefer Ravena back in business and then import Olu Ashaolu being a constant producer.
Still, they felt like there is still room for improvement as they tapped the experienced Harris to take the place of Ashaolu, despite the good start.
NLEX coach Yeng Guiao explained the curious move.
“We are thankful for Olu (Ashaolu) and his contributions, but we grabbed the chance to get Manny Harris,” said Guiao. “He’s been on our radar for quite some time since he can score and defend at a high level, being a former NBA player.”
Both the Road Warriors and the Dyip are coming off wins as they look forward to testing each other.
NLEX shocked Barangay Ginebra, 113-111, in Dubai more than a week ago, while Columbian routed Blackwater, 102-90, last Friday.
After a three-game winning run, the Hotshots suffered back-to-back losses while import Romeo Travis suffered an ankle injury in the team’s tight 89-90 loss to the Beermen, also last Friday.
Travis will be a game-time decision as of this report.
