Calvin Oftana proves clutch as NLEX fends off Phoenix in overtime

The NLEX Road Warriors climbed back from an eight-point deficit with 1:20 left in the game to force an overtime and fend off the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters, 114-108, in the 2022 PBA Philippine Cup on Thursday at the Araneta Coliseum.

NLEX outscored Phoenix in the opening quarter, 23-7, and led by as many as 19 points, but the Fuel Masters came alive in the payoff period to claim an 85-84 edge and seize the momentum with less than six minutes left in the game.

The Road Warriors knotted the score to 87-all with five minutes on the clock, but Phoenix went on a 13-5 rampage to mount a 100-92 cushion with 80 ticks remaining.

JR Quinahan hit a timely basket and Kevin Alas completed a three-point play to put them within striking distance, but Matthew Wright answered for Phoenix, 102-97.

Rookie Calvin Oftana then hit a clutch trey with 14 seconds left to breathe some life into NLEX. Larry Muyang split from the line with eight seconds left to give Phoenix a three-point advantage, but Oftana once again drained a triple to send the game into overtime.

It was all NLEX from there as Phoenix could only score five points in the extra period against the Road Warriors' 11.

Oftana led NLEX with an all-around performance of 22 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, two steals, and two blocks, while JR Quinahan delivered 21 points and four assists.

Kevin Alas and Don Trollano combined for 35 points while Justin Chua finished with 12 to help NLEX claim its fourth win in six outings.

Five different players scored in double digits for Phoenix led by Matthew Wright with 19 and Tyler Tio with 18. Sean Anthony and Muyang had 17 apiece while RJ Jazul added 12.

NLEX will next face Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots on Saturday while Phoenix (2-5) will play against Blackwater Bossing on Friday, July 8.

—MGP, GMA News