The playmaker it has been looking for finally arrived as NLEX landed Robert Bolick in a three-team trade with NorthPort and San Miguel Beer that was formally approved by the Commissioner’s Office of the Philippine Basketball Association on Monday.
Bolick, who returned to the country last October from a brief stint with the Fukushima Firebonds in the Division 2 of the Japan B. League, joined the Road Warriors together with Kent Salado in exchange for big man Ben Adamos, guard Kris Rosales, small forward Don Trollano and its second-round choice next year.
Then, Trollano was shipped to the Beermen in exchange for Allyn Bulanadi, Jeepy Faundo and their second-round pick in 2026.
NLEX team governor Ronald Dulatre welcomed the arrival of Bolick, a former Gilas Pilipinas stalwart who averaged 21.6 points, 4.5 rebounds and 6.5 assists in the previous Commissioner’s Cup.
After all, the Road Warriors will be missing the services of ace playmaker Kevin Alas, who underwent surgery to repair his torn anterior cruciate ligament last week.
With Bolick and Salado around, the Road Warriors will be able to shore up their backcourt, especially in the ongoing Commissioner’s Cup in which they are at the 10th spot with a 2-5 win-loss slate.
Bolick and Salado will be boosting the backcourt rotation that already has Matt Nieto, rookie Enoch Valdez, Robbie Herndon, and Hesed Gabo with import Stokely Chaffe under head coach Frankie Lim.
“In light of Kevin Alas’ unfortunate injury, we recognize the pressing need to fill the void left by his scoring and leadership,” said Dulatre in a statement.
“Robert Bolick is a remarkable player and we believe that his skills and experience will significantly contribute to the NLEX Road Warriors.”
“We are excited about the prospect of having him on our roster and we look forward to the positive impact he can make for the team.”
Barring any setback, Bolick and Salado can suit up for the Road Warriors as early as Wednesday when they collide with TNT Tropang Giga at the Philsports Arena.
Meanwhile, the inclusion of Trollano will be a major boost to the Beermen that already has an explosive frontcourt in June Mar Fajardo, Noy Baclao, Troy Mallilin, Mo Tautuaa and import Ivan Aska.
At San Miguel, he will be reunited with his former Adamson University mentor Leo Austria as well as teammates Rodney Brondial and Jericho Cruz.
Austria is currently the Beermen consultant under head coach Jorge Gallent.
