![PBA NLEX Newcomer Enoch Valdez](https://sports.inquirer.net/files/2024/01/IMG_0831_PBA-Commissioners-Cup-NLEX-Converge_Enoch-Valdez-scaled.jpg)
NLEX rookie Enoch Valdez leads the Road Warriors to an important victory. –Marlo Cueto/INQUIRER.net
Thanks to the efforts of rookies Enoch Valdez and Richie Rodger, NLEX defeated Converge 107-103, clinching a spot in the final quarterfinals along with TNT. PBA Commissioner's Cup Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Valdez hit two 3-pointers in the fourth inning, and Roger scored the decisive goal in a desperate situation, and the Road Warriors improved to 4-6 against the idle Tropang Giga. They tied for the loss, survived the playoff race, and reached the final game. Elimination method.
However, NLEX faces a tough task as it faces Barangay Ginebra in Legazpi City on Saturday.
If both teams end up with the same results after the elimination round, they will meet in a playoff for eighth place. TNT will face Phoenix on Sunday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
Newly appointed DeAndre Williams-Baldwin recorded 22 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists in his debut after NLEX management decided on his replacement. Stockley Chaffee.
Valdez scored 10 of his 19 points, perhaps his best performance since joining the Road Warriors. He is a member of Lyceum in the NCAA.
Converge fell to 1-9 despite a 50-point performance from import Jamil Wilson.
Wilson got the Fiber Xers within three points at 105-102, but Roger made a mid-range shot with 39 seconds left to make it a five-point lead.
Score:
NLEX 107—Williams Baldwin 22, Valdez 19, Bolick 15, Anthony 14, Roger 14, Nermal 12, Miranda 6, Herndon 5, Salado 0, Fajardo 0, Semerado 0.
CONVERGE 103—Wilson 50, Arana 19, Fornillos 8, Melecio 5, Nieto 5, Stockton 4, Fleming 4, Wong 4, Winston 2, Margdenberg 2, Ambohot 0, Delos Santos 0, Santos 0.
Quarters: 25-22, 51-43, 80-81, 107-103.