France League

Walking into the Araneta Coliseum on game night, the energy is palpable—a mix of hope, tension, and that distinct Filipino passion for basketball. As someone who’s followed the PBA for over a decade, I’ve seen rosters evolve, dynasties rise, and underdogs defy expectations. This year, the NLEX Road Warriors have captured my attention like few teams before, and it’s not just because of their revamped lineup. There’s something about the way they’re building their squad that speaks to a deeper philosophy, one that reminds me of a quote I once came across from a volleyball star reflecting on a career highlight: "It was a special moment for sure, but it was more of like a special event than a real game to win or something. In my career, I wouldn’t just put it there as a volleyball milestone, but as a person, it was one of my highlights for sure." That idea—of moments transcending the sport itself—resonates with what NLEX seems to be aiming for in 2024. It’s not just about stacking wins; it’s about creating an identity that fans and players can rally around, something that lingers long after the final buzzer.

Let’s dive into the latest NLEX roster updates, because honestly, this team has made some moves that are both strategic and, in my view, a bit daring. The core remains anchored by veterans like Kevin Alas and Don Trollano, who’ve been with the team through thick and thin. Alas, in particular, is a player I’ve always admired for his resilience—coming back from multiple ACL injuries and still averaging around 14.2 points per game last season. But the real buzz, at least in my circles, is around their new acquisitions. They’ve signed two promising rookies from the recent draft, including John Paul Maguliano, a 6’5” forward who dominated the NCAA with stats like 12.8 points and 9.1 rebounds per game. I think this is a smart move; Maguliano brings youth and energy to a frontcourt that sometimes felt stagnant. Then there’s the trade that sent shockwaves through the league: NLEX acquired veteran guard RR Pogoy from TNT in exchange for a future first-round pick. Pogoy, a national team mainstay, is a proven scorer—he dropped 27 points in a game against Ginebra last year—and his addition signals that NLEX is serious about competing now, not later. Some analysts argue they gave up too much, but I disagree. In today’s fast-paced PBA, you need experienced players who can perform under pressure, and Pogoy fits that bill perfectly.

Beyond the names and numbers, what excites me most is how this roster reflects a shift in team culture. Remember that quote about special moments? I see NLEX embracing that mindset. They’re not just assembling players; they’re curating a group that can create memorable experiences, whether it’s a clutch three-pointer or a gritty defensive stand. Take their coaching staff, led by Yeng Guiao—a man known for his fiery demeanor and ability to maximize talent. Under his guidance, I’ve noticed players like Trollano evolving from role players into leaders. Trollano’s scoring average jumped to 16.5 points last conference, and he’s become more vocal on the court, something that doesn’t always show up in stats but matters immensely. I had a chance to chat with a team insider recently, and they mentioned that Guiao is focusing on chemistry drills and mental conditioning, not just X’s and O’s. That, to me, is what sets this team apart. They’re building for the long haul, aiming for moments that fans will reminisce about years from now, much like how that volleyball star cherished a personal highlight over a mere win.

Of course, no team is without its challenges, and NLEX has a few that could make or break their 2024 campaign. Depth in the center position is one area I’m slightly worried about. They rely heavily on Justin Chua, a solid big man who averaged 10.3 points and 6.7 rebounds last season, but behind him, the options thin out. If Chua gets into foul trouble or faces injury—he missed eight games last year due to a sprained ankle—the interior defense could collapse. I’d love to see them pick up a backup center from free agency, maybe someone like Yousef Taha, who’s still unsigned and could provide 15-20 minutes of reliable play. Another issue is three-point consistency. While Pogoy and Alas are capable shooters, the team as a whole shot just 31% from beyond the arc in the last conference, which placed them in the bottom half of the league. In modern basketball, that’s a liability. I think they need to run more sets designed for open threes, perhaps emulating the success of teams like San Miguel, who led the PBA with a 36% three-point shooting rate.

Looking ahead, I’m optimistic about NLEX’s chances in the 2024 PBA season. Their projected starting five—Pogoy, Alas, Trollano, Maguliano, and Chua—boasts a blend of youth and experience that could surprise a lot of people. I predict they’ll finish in the top four of the elimination round, with a win-loss record around 9-2 if they stay healthy. But more than stats, I believe they’ll deliver those "special moments" that define a team’s legacy. Maybe it’s a game-winning shot from Pogoy or a breakout performance from a rookie. Whatever it is, it’ll be the kind of highlight that players and fans carry with them, just like that volleyball star’s reflection. As the season tips off, I’ll be watching closely, not just as a fan of the game, but as someone who appreciates how sports can shape personal and collective memories. NLEX might not be the favorite for the championship, but they’re building something worth remembering—and in the end, that’s what makes basketball so compelling.