PBA: Locals making life easier for NLEX import DeQuan Jones

NLEX Road Warriors’ DeQuan Jones during a game vs TNT Tropang 5G in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines–NLEX import DeQuan Jones had nothing but praise for the Road Warriors’ local players following their latest victory in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup.

The Road Warriors stayed unbeaten at 6-0 after defeating TNT, 88-83, at Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Tuesday night with Jones leading the way with 27 points and seven rebounds.

Instead of taking the credit, however, the import pointed to NLEX’s locals, saying they made his job much easier.

“We know and understand that the key in longevity is evening our work load. For me personally, my job is to give the team whatever it needs to win,” he said.

“When u play with Berto (Bolick), Schonny (Winston) and LJ (Gonzales), it’s tiring chasing them up and down but they make things easier for me.”

The guard tandem of Gonzales and Bolick chipped in 11 and 10 points, respectively, in the win.

NLEX Road Warriors’ Robert Bolick during a game vs TNT Tropang 5G in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup. –PBA IMAGES

NLEX also got balanced contributions from unsung heroes Schonny Winston, JB Bahio and Enoch Valdez, who contributed nine points apiece.

The collective effort kept the Road Warriors atop Group A and the league standings.

When asked if the team’s perfect record brings added pressure, Jones brushed off the idea.

“Honestly, the only time we’re reminded of pressure is after the game. In the first talk we had with coach Jimmy (Alapag) to have a next play mentality and we’ll take every game one at a time, we’ll focus and hone our craft,” he said.

“We know what we want to achieve. Rome wasn’t built in a day.”

NLEX looks to keep its winning momentum on Friday when it takes on Terrafirma at the same venue.