Robert Bolick looked like his old self again as he made up for a measly 3-point output in NLEX's opening game in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup.
Robert Bolick could no longer remember when was the last time he scored in single digits in what has been a stellar career in college and the PBA.
So when he did end up with three points on a dismal 1-for-11 shooting from the field in NLEX's loss to NorthPort last Thursday, Nov. 28, there is no way he is letting that happen again.
Come the Road Warriors' second game against Blackwater Saturday, Nov. 30, Bolick was all over the court early, putting up 15 of his 23 points in the first half.
He finished up with 23 points, five rebounds, 10 assists, and two steals as he and his squad both bounced back.
NLEX was able to chalk up a 107-95 victory thanks to his and Mike Watkins (26-25) combined efforts.
"'Yun nga, nakakahiya nga sabi ni coach (Jong Uichico)," said Bolick.
[RELATED STORY: Mike Watkins, Robert Bolick team up to hand NLEX win No. 1 vs Blackwater]
But Uichico said it wasn’t Bolick’s fault that he had an uncharacteristically sloppy performance in the Road Warriors' first game.
“Actually, it’s my fault bakit hindi siya nakakuha ng rhythm niya. It’s not his fault,” said Uichico.
“Medyo feel, experiment, ganoon. But now, Berto is in his normal, comfort zone kaya nakakuha siya ng rhythm.”
Robert Bolick, unselfish in bounce-back game
Robert Bolick goes for a layup in NLEX's second game against Blackwater in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup on Saturday, Nov. 30. | Photo (c) PBA
When Bolick finally got his rhythm back, everything just fell into place for NLEX.
Save for Jonnel Policarpio and Jhan Nermal, everyone scored for the Road Warriors, with Richie Rodger finishing with 14 points on four triples.
Xyrus Torres and Enoch Valdez added 12 and 11 points, respectively.
“It all starts with Berto, him being able to create for them. Kaya malaking bagay na si Berto, 10 assists 'di ba?” Uichico said.
“Berto willing to give up the ball, it’s [his teammates'] job to have kumpiyansa na itira 'yung open shot. Hopefully, Mike (Watkins) can clean up the board on our missed shots.”