It’s safe to say that Robert Bolick’s best days have been with the NLEX Road Warriors. 

Bolick’s averages of 21.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 7.8 assists, and a steal through 10 games in the 2024-2025 Honda PBA Commissioner’s Cup are par for the course, but it’s his comfort level that has been evident thanks in part to a full year with the Road Warriors. 

NLEX’s 108-94 victory over the Phoenix Fuel Masters may not have come to fruition if not for Bolick’s heroics, which also came as Mike Watkins was working through foul trouble. Jonnel Policarpio stepped up admirably in the frontcourt, but the clear focal point offensively was Bolick. 

Advertisement

The former DLSU Green Archer and San Beda Red Lion is a tough cover given his ability to evade defenders with his quickness and array of finishes around the basket. With that, Bolick has been able to thrive within set plays and improvisation when necessary. It certainly gives him and the Road Warriors some air of unpredictability, but it also makes them a tough out even when they’re behind by a large margin. 

Bolick’s latest exploits have certainly not gone unnoticed so it’s likely that NLEX’s sister team, the TNT Tropang Giga, are keeping tabs. Bolick had one of his worst games in the conference against the Tropang Giga, finishing with four points in 28 minutes in a 94-87 loss. 

This isn’t to say that there are plans in place for Bolick to move to TNT, especially since the Tropang Giga are currently at 6-2 and are coming off a PBA Governors’ Cup title run. However, TNT would love to pair him with former college teammate Calvin Oftana. Moreover, having Bolick would make up for the loss of Mikey Williams. 

It would be a shame to see Bolick on the move given how it’s clear he’s found a home with the Road Warriors. He’s clearly assumed the lead guard role that Kiefer Ravena left behind when he made the jump to Japan’s B.League. Kevin Alas initially assumed that mantle, but his ACL injuries have stifled his momentum. When healthy, Alas provides a great backcourt complement, and the emergence of Policarpio should make things easier for Bolick as well. 

At 4-6, the NLEX Road Warriors are clearly on the outside looking in, and the urge to shake things up could be tempting. However, Robert Bolick has found a certain level of comfort with the Road Warriors and his teammates are finding their footing after going through a prolonged slump. NLEX should remain patient and give them time to work things out, because good things come to those who wait.

Advertisement