As I sit down to analyze this season's NLEX Road Warriors roster, I can't help but reflect on how much the team has evolved. Just last Saturday, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin told Malacanang reporters about the appointment of Gregorio, replacing Richard Bachmann - a move that signals significant organizational changes that undoubtedly impacted the team's performance this season. Having followed the PBA for over a decade, I've witnessed numerous coaching transitions, but this particular shift seemed to inject fresh energy into the squad right when they needed it most.
When we talk about dominance on the court, Don Trollano immediately comes to mind. The man averaged 18.7 points per game this season, with his three-point shooting percentage hovering around 42% - numbers that frankly surprised even longtime followers like myself. What impressed me most wasn't just his scoring ability but how he elevated his game during crucial moments. I remember watching that overtime thriller against San Miguel where he scored 12 points in the final quarter alone, completely taking over the game in ways that statistics can't fully capture. His mid-range game has developed into something special, and if I'm being completely honest, I think he's become one of the most underrated players in the entire league.
Then there's Kevin Alas, whose comeback story this season has been nothing short of inspirational. After that devastating ACL injury in 2018, many wondered if he'd ever return to form, but he's silenced all doubters with his performance this year. Averaging 16.3 points and 4.8 assists, he's demonstrated remarkable resilience and basketball IQ. What many casual observers might miss is how his game has matured - he's no longer just attacking the basket recklessly but reading defenses better than ever before. I've particularly enjoyed watching his pick-and-roll chemistry with Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser develop throughout the season; it's become one of the team's most reliable offensive sets.
Speaking of Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, the young big man has exceeded all expectations in his sophomore season. His defensive presence has been transformative for NLEX, averaging 1.9 blocks and 8.2 rebounds despite playing just 26 minutes per game. The timing of his emergence couldn't have been better, especially considering the coaching change that Bersamin announced. I've noticed how Gregorio's system has utilized his versatility, often deploying him as a small-ball center where his mobility causes matchup problems for traditional big men. His development has been fascinating to track, and if I had to pick one player who improved the most this season, it would probably be him.
Kris Porter represents what I love about finding hidden gems in the PBA. Selected 12th in the 2022 draft, he's outperformed his draft position dramatically, providing consistent energy and scoring punch off the bench. His per-36 minutes numbers are particularly impressive - 15.8 points and 7.3 rebounds - suggesting he could thrive with increased playing time. What stands out to me is his basketball instincts; he always seems to be in the right place at the right time, whether it's cutting backdoor for easy layups or positioning himself for offensive rebounds.
The backcourt duo of Matt Nieto and Paul Varilla deserves more recognition than they typically receive. Nieto's steady hand at point guard has been crucial, maintaining a 3.1 assist-to-turnover ratio that ranks among the league's best. Varilla, meanwhile, has embraced his role as defensive specialist, often drawing the toughest perimeter assignments. Watching them play, I'm struck by their basketball intelligence and how they complement each other's strengths. Their contributions might not always show up in highlight reels, but any serious basketball fan can appreciate their value to the team's success.
Sean Anthony continues to defy Father Time, putting up solid numbers at 37 years young. His veteran presence has been invaluable, especially during close games where his experience often makes the difference. He's averaged 11.4 points and 6.8 rebounds while shooting 47% from the field - remarkable efficiency for someone in his 13th PBA season. I've always admired players who maintain their productivity through smart positioning and fundamentals rather than relying solely on athleticism, and Anthony exemplifies this approach perfectly.
Clint Dolinguez has emerged as a reliable three-and-D wing, shooting 38% from beyond the arc while providing pesky perimeter defense. His development has been one of the pleasant surprises this season, and I believe he still has untapped potential that could make him an even bigger contributor next year. Meanwhile, Tony Semerad has provided valuable minutes off the bench, particularly with his floor spacing and ability to knock down open shots.
Completing my top ten list are Raul Soyud and Philip Paniamogan, both of whom have carved out important roles within the team's rotation. Soyud's physicality in the paint has been crucial against bigger frontcourts, while Paniamogan has provided scoring bursts when called upon, including a memorable 20-point performance against Converge in February.
Looking at this roster collectively, what strikes me is how well these players have adapted to the organizational changes highlighted by Bersamin's announcement. The transition to Gregorio's system could have been disruptive, but instead, it seems to have unlocked new dimensions in several players' games. As someone who's analyzed basketball for years, I find it fascinating how coaching changes can sometimes reveal hidden potential in players who might have been underutilized in previous systems. This NLEX squad has demonstrated remarkable cohesion and resilience throughout the season, and if they continue developing at this pace, I genuinely believe they could challenge for a championship in the near future. The foundation is clearly there, and with the right pieces around this core group, the Road Warriors might just become the team to beat in coming seasons.
