MANILA — Little-known rookie John Matthew Bravo turned into Terrafirma Dyip’s unlikely hero, spearheading a stunning 97-91 upset over the NLEX Road Warriors in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup on Sunday night at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
Bravo, a sixth-round pick in the recent rookie draft, erupted for 18 points — including 10 in a fiery third-quarter stretch — to deliver the Dyip’s breakthrough win after a rough season opener.
The 26-year-old cager’s fearless shooting helped Terrafirma turn a slim 46-45 edge into a commanding 74-60 lead. He drilled three consecutive triples, then teamed up with Paolo Hernandez and Ahmad Didat Hanapi to stretch the margin to as wide as 78-62.
NLEX mounted a late rally and came within 91-93, but Bravo and Jerrick Ahanmisi delivered clutch baskets to fend off the Road Warriors and secure the victory.
Ahanmisi finished with 14 points, while Hernandez and Hanapi chipped in 13 apiece. Mark Sangalang added 11 markers to round out the Dyip’s balanced attack.
Xyrus Torres and JB Bahio top-scored for NLEX with 14 points each, while Jonnel Policarpio and Brandon Ramirez both had 13. Anthony Semerad contributed 12 in the losing effort as the Road Warriors slipped to a 1-1 record.
Meanwhile, in the second game, the Phoenix Fuel Masters warded off a fierce San Miguel Beermen comeback to post a 109-103 triumph.
The Fuel Masters built a 105-90 cushion after a Tyler Tio triple, but the Beermen stormed back to within 101-105 on back-to-back hits from Marcio Lassiter and Celedonio Trollano. Timely free throws from Evan Nelle and Ricci Rivero, however, sealed Phoenix’s first win in two outings.
Rivero turned in 16 points, seven rebounds, and two assists, while Tio and Kai Ballungay added 14 each. Jason Perkins contributed 13 markers.
June Mar Fajardo carried San Miguel (0-2) with 19 points and 22 rebounds, followed by Trollano with 18, Jaymar Perez with 17, and Jericho Cruz with 15./PN
