Terrafirma Dyip erased a 23‑point deficit to push NLEX to a 101‑100 finish on July 12, 2026, at the Ynares Center, sealing the game with a missed three‑pointer by Justin Strings in the final second.
What happened?
NLEX entered the fourth quarter with a 90‑67 lead, thanks to a third‑quarter triple from Anthony Semerad that stretched the margin to 23 points. The Road Warriors managed only 11 points in the final period, while Terrafirma ignited a 19‑4 run that cut the gap to eight with 6:25 left. Xyrus Torres answered with a three‑pointer, but the Dyip kept the pressure on, stringing together nine straight points that brought the score to 100‑101 with 42.7 seconds remaining.
Who led the charge?
DeQuan Jones topped NLEX’s box score with 30 points, seven rebounds, four assists and three blocks. Schonny Winston added 13 points, six assists and five boards. For the Dyip, Mav Ahanmisi and Juami Strings each poured in 19 points; Strings also recorded a double‑double of 18 points, 13 rebounds and six assists. Xyrus Torres contributed a crucial three‑pointer in the comeback, and Robert Bolick added a late four‑pointer that sparked the final surge.
Why it matters for Terrafirma Dyip?
The narrow loss drops Terrafirma to 1‑1, but the performance proves the squad can erase large deficits against a top‑seeded opponent. The 19‑point rally highlighted the effectiveness of their perimeter shooting and aggressive rebounding, especially from Strings, whose 13 boards kept second‑chance opportunities alive. The game also showed the coaching staff’s ability to adjust defensive schemes in the paint, forcing NLEX into low‑percentage shots.
What’s next for the teams?
NLEX improves to 2‑0, sitting solo first in Group A and eyeing a strong push toward the playoffs. Their next matchup will test whether they can sustain offensive output after a sluggish fourth quarter. Terrafirma, now 1‑1, will look to build on the late surge when they face their next opponent later this week. If they can replicate the fourth‑quarter intensity, they could climb the standings quickly.
Key takeaways
- The game hinged on a 19‑4 run that trimmed a 23‑point hole. - Justin Strings’ missed three at the buzzer kept the result in NLEX’s favor. - Both teams displayed strong perimeter play, but Terrafirma’s rebounding gave them extra possessions. - The result sets up a pivotal stretch for both clubs as the Governor’s Cup progresses.
The Ynares Center crowd witnessed a classic PBA thriller, and the final second left fans buzzing about what the Dyip can achieve when they fire up their offense late.