JM Bravo leads Terrafirma past NLEX

Rookie JM Bravo powered Terrafirma to a 97-91 victory over NLEX in the PBA Philippine Cup on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Bravo, a product of Lyceum of the Philippines University in the NCAA, led the Dyip with 18 points, eight rebounds, and one assist.

After closing the third period with a 74-62 lead, Terrafirma continued to press on NLEX, building their biggest advantage at 78-62 early in the final frame, courtesy of Bravo's free throws following a Jonnel Policarpio foul.

The Dyip then held off a late rally by the Road Warriors, who pulled within two, 93-91, with under a minute remaining. Jerrick Ahanmisi halted NLEX's momentum, then Bravo put the icing on the cake to seal the victory.

Jerrick Ahanmisi contributed 14 points, while Paolo Hernandez and Didat Hanapi chipped in 13 points apiece.

On the other side, JB Bahio led NLEX with 14 points. Anthony Semerad recorded a double-double with 12 points, 11 rebounds, and two steals. Xyrus Torres also scored 14, while Brandon Ramirez and Jonnel Policarpio added 12 points each.

Scores:

Terrafirma 97 – Bravo 18, Ahanmisi 14, Hernandez 13, Hanapi 13, Sangalang 11, Paraiso 6, Nonoy 6, Olivario 5, Rivero 4, Zaldivar 3, Garcia 2, Catapusan 2.

NLEX 91 – Bahio 14, Torres 14, Ramirez 13, Policarpio 13, Semerad 12, Alas 7, Valdez 6, Amer 5, Nieto 3, Herndon 3, Marcelo 1, Rodger 0.

Quarters: 24-24, 46-41, 74-62, 97-91.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News