IN all of NLEX's three semifinals appearances, there has been one constant: Kevin Alas.
Alas was already with the Road Warriors in the 2017-18 Philippine Cup when they, led by then-rookie Kiefer Ravena, made the Final Four for the first time before bowing to Magnolia.
The veteran guard was also with NLEX's semis squad in the 2021 Governors' Cup, then mentored by Yeng Guiao, which was later ousted by Barangay Ginebra.
Now in the 50th Season Govs' Cup, of course, Alas is one of just three players, alongside Tony Semerad and Matt Nieto, who will experience the franchise's return to the Final Four, five years in the making.
READ: Bolick eyes team, individual glory after sending NLEX to semis
And although he already won a PBA championship as a rookie for TNT in the 2015 Commissioner’s Cup, the now-34-year-old remains determined to finally go through to the finals with the Road Warriors.
“Napakagandang privilege na maging part of this group. But coach Jim [Alapag] said we’re not yet done,” Alas said. “So yes, we are happy, of course, with the entry to the semifinals. But there is more work to be done.”
Alapag's value added
Though more work is to be done, there is no question on how much Alapag has changed the complexion over at NLEX.
“Talagang first day niya pa lang dito, he tried to instill the winning culture agad. Sinabi niya sa amin, we’re looking at December. Day 1 pa lang, sinabi niya sa amin ‘yun,” Alas shared.
“I guess human nature na magkaroon ng doubts kasi lagi kami natatalo sa quarters. But coach Jimmy, talagang he is really a big difference sa amin. Talagang the way he handles the team, he talks to us personally and as a team, alam mong he is a winner.”
Personally, Alas has also been entrusted by Alapag to help lead the Road Warriors - and the former has taken the latter's task to heart.
“Actually, before the quarters pa lang, as one of the vets, kinausap din ako ni coach Jimmy na he needs my help to be vocal sa mga players kasi (I’m) one of the more experienced players, kumbaga," Alas shared.
“Just to impart some of the knowledge na nakuha ko through the years, and what to expect. Sa eliminations, yes, mahirap, pero pagdating ng playoffs, mas mahirap. And now, semifinals, mas mahirap ‘yan kasi siyempre best of the best na pagdating sa semis.”
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