Terrafirma Ends NLEX’s Perfect Run with 114-109 Victory in PBA Governors’ Cup

NLEX’s undefeated streak in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup came to a halt on Friday as Terrafirma Dyip handed the Road Warriors a 114-109 defeat at Ninoy Aquino Stadium. The loss marked NLEX’s first setback of the conference, dropping their record to 6-1, while Terrafirma improved to 3-4 in Group A and handed coach Jimmy Alapag his first official coaching loss in the PBA.

Terrafirma coach Ronald Tubid acknowledged that his team was fortunate in the win but emphasized that their mindset was key. He said they had previously struggled with energy and execution in late-game situations but this time they believed they could compete against the undefeated Road Warriors. Tubid noted that matchup-wise, Terrafirma felt confident they could challenge NLEX and that the players were determined to match their intensity.

The game’s decisive moments unfolded in the final minutes. Trailing 109-105 with just over three minutes remaining, Terrafirma’s Geo Chiu took control by scoring two consecutive baskets to tie the game at 109-all with 1:38 left on the clock. This momentum shift put pressure on NLEX, who had hoped to regain control.

Shortly after, Brent Paraiso made a critical and-one play with just over a minute remaining, giving Terrafirma a 111-109 lead. Although Paraiso missed the free throw, the Road Warriors faltered on the next possession, committing multiple turnovers that prevented them from reclaiming the lead and preserving their perfect record.

Justin Strings was the standout performer for Terrafirma, contributing 28 points and 11 rebounds. Maverick Ahanmisi added a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Juami Tiongson and JM Bravo also provided significant scoring support with 20 and 16 points, respectively.

For NLEX, Robert Bolick and JB Bahio each scored 20 points in the losing effort. Import DeQuan Jones finished with 19 points, and Schonny Winston and LJ Gonzales chipped in 16 and 15 points, respectively. Despite their strong individual performances, the Road Warriors were unable to withstand Terrafirma’s late surge.

The defeat ends NLEX’s perfect start to the Governors’ Cup and presents a challenge for coach Jimmy Alapag and his squad as they seek to maintain their competitiveness in Group A. Terrafirma’s victory demonstrates their ability to rise to the occasion against top-tier opponents, signaling a potential shift in the group’s dynamics as the tournament progresses.