Kevin Alas is hoping against hope that KJ McDaniels can still return and continue his stint with NLEX should they go deeper in the PBA Governors’ Cup.
It is indeed a long shot since the NBA vet is flying back home to the States soon to be by his partner’s side when she gives birth, but the veteran floor general would definitely want to play with him again should there be an opportunity.
“Lord willing, makapasok kami ng semifinals, and if there’s a chance na makabalik siya, why not,” said Alas.
The Road Warriors will now have to tread the rest of the season-ending conference without McDaniels due to the aforementioned reason, undeniably a major blow to their aspirations of creating a special run in the playoffs.
Friday night was his last hurrah with the ball club, and his teammates made sure that he would leave on a high. Alas and the rest of the locals did their work, as they beat defending champs Ginebra by way of a 115-103 decision.
It was, in some way, the team’s expression of their gratitude for his services, which was a huge reason why they have now secured a coveted Top Four slot that also arms them with a twice-to-beat edge in the quarters.
(C) PBA Images
NLEX finished the elimination round at 8-3, tying its best record in franchise history which it set in the 2019 edition of the tilt.
“We’re really grateful to KJ,” said Alas, who nearly had a triple-double of 18 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists versus the Barangay.
“Kasi ‘yung mga victories namin, he really carried us sa shoulders niya.”
McDaniels did some lifting against the Gin Kings as well. The 29-year-old scored 10 points in the third quarter, helping his side’s turnaround after a slow start that saw them trail by 15 in the opening period.
The former TNT KaTropa reinforcement finished with 26 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks, two steals, and an assist in 44 minutes.
“Of course, KJ is an NBA-caliber of an import,” said Alas.
“Talagang malaking pasasalamat namin kay KJ.”
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