NLEX unleashes Harris; Blackwater brings back Blakely

MANILA, Philippines — The NLEX Road Warriors rev up their playoffs drive in the PBA Governors’ Cup by getting former NBA cager Manny Harris on board as their new import.

Harris, who had previous stints with the LA Lakers, the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Dallas Mavericks, replaced Olu Ashaolu in time for the 4-1 Road Warriors’ bid for back to back wins and a firmer grip on No. 2 today against Columbian Dyip (3-2) at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, 

“Manny is a legit NBA talent who has the ability to impact the game on both ends, a proven scorer and a defender – a winner in his chosen field,” said NLEX coach Yeng Guiao of the 6-foot-5 Harris, their answer to the NBA caliber reinforcements of rivals like KJ McDaniels of unbeaten pacesetter TNT and Dez Wells of fellow second-running San Miguel.

The Road Warriors look to sustain the impetus from their epic 113-111 come-from-behind overtime win over Barangay Ginebra in Dubai as they shoot for No. 5 in the 4:30 p.m. opener.

In the second game, titleholder Magnolia (3-2) aims to get back on track as it faces the Elite (1-3).

The Elite once more tapped Marqus Blakely to lead their fight after trying out Aaron Fuller for one game. Blakely played Blackwater’s first three games and averaged 11.67 points, 11.33 rebounds and 4.67 steals before the team activated Fuller from the injured list. Fuller delivered 26-10-3 in his debut.

The Dyip themselves are coming off a good win, a 102-90 spanking of Blackwater, which coach Johnedel Cardel hopes to use as momentum-builder.  

“They (Columbian) are a very dangerous team, one that’s getting better every game. Their confidence level is very high and they are coming together as a team,” said Guiao. “We also have a new import and blending him with the team in a short period of time is a concern.”