Discover the Top NLEX PBA Players Making an Impact This Season

As I sit down to analyze this season's NLEX PBA performances, I can't help but reflect on how much the landscape has shifted since that significant Saturday when Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin announced Gregorio's appointment, replacing Richard Bachmann in a move that sent ripples through the basketball community. Having followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I've seen numerous coaching changes, but this particular transition felt different - it signaled a new era for NLEX Road Warriors, and frankly, I was excited to see how this would translate on the court.

Let me start by saying that Don Trollano has been nothing short of spectacular this season. The 30-year-old forward has elevated his game to what I believe is an All-Star level, averaging around 18.2 points per game while shooting an impressive 42% from beyond the arc. I've watched him develop over the years, but this season he's playing with a confidence I haven't seen before. His mid-range game has become virtually unstoppable, and defensively, he's been more engaged than ever. What really stands out to me is how he's embraced being the go-to guy in crucial moments - something NLEX has desperately needed.

Then there's Kevin Alas, whose comeback story continues to inspire me every time I watch him play. After suffering that devastating ACL injury back in 2018, many wondered if he'd ever return to form. Well, he's not just back - he's better. Averaging approximately 16.8 points and 4.5 assists, Alas has been the engine that makes this team go. His basketball IQ is off the charts, and I've noticed how he's adjusted his game to rely more on craftiness than pure athleticism. The way he navigates pick-and-roll situations reminds me of some of the great PBA point guards I've watched throughout the years.

What fascinates me about this NLEX team is how they've responded to the coaching change. Since Gregorio took over, we've seen a noticeable shift in their offensive philosophy. They're playing at a faster pace, taking more three-pointers, and implementing more modern spacing concepts. I've counted at least five games where this new system directly contributed to their victories. The numbers bear this out - they're averaging about 98 points per game under the new regime compared to the 89 they were putting up earlier in the season. That's a dramatic improvement that can't be ignored.

Kris Porter deserves more recognition than he's getting. The sophomore big man has been a revelation, providing energy and versatility off the bench. He's averaging roughly 9.5 points and 7.2 rebounds in just 22 minutes per game - efficiency numbers that any coach would love. I've been particularly impressed with his ability to switch onto smaller defenders, something that's become crucial in today's positionless basketball. At 6'6", he moves like someone three inches shorter, and I genuinely believe he has the potential to develop into one of the league's premier big men if he continues on this trajectory.

The acquisition of Tony Semerad has proven to be smarter than many initially thought, including myself. I'll admit I had doubts about how he'd fit into their system, but he's silenced critics with his consistent two-way play. Shooting around 39% from three while often guarding the opponent's best perimeter player is no small feat. What I appreciate most about Semerad is his understanding of role player dynamics - he never forces shots, moves well without the ball, and makes the extra pass. In my observation, players like him are the glue that holds contending teams together.

Looking at the bigger picture, this NLEX squad reminds me of those gritty teams that often outperform expectations. They might not have the superstar power of some other franchises, but they play with a cohesion and purpose that's admirable. The coaching change appears to have injected new life into the program, and the players have responded beautifully. From where I sit, this could be the beginning of something special for the Road Warriors. They're playing with an identity now - something that was missing during the early part of the season.

As we move deeper into the conference, I'm keeping my eye on how they handle the increased pressure. The true test for any team claiming to make an impact is sustainability. Can they maintain this level when opponents have more film on them? Will the coaching adjustments continue to pay dividends? Based on what I've seen so far, I'm optimistic about their chances. They've shown resilience and adaptability - two qualities that separate good teams from great ones. The road ahead won't be easy, but this version of NLEX has proven they're up for the challenge.