NLEX eyes solo lead, takes on TnT

MANILA, Philippines – NLEX goes for the early solo lead in the PBA Philippine Cup as the Road Warriors tackle the Talk n Text Tropang Texters at 4:15 p.m. at the Big Dome Friday.

With San Beda’s five-peat bid in the NCAA over, coach Boyet Fernandez is likely to take the NLEX rein as they seek a follow-up on their come-from-behind 101-96 win over Globalport Tuesday.

Rain or Shine and Blackwater, which both lost their season debuts, clash in the other game at 7 p.m.

Paul Lee is a doubtful starter for Rain or Shine although he’s been cleared of a major injury on his own bad fall in their game against San Miguel Beer Tuesday.

Over in Lucena Saturday, Barangay Ginebra and Kia play in the kickoff leg of the Petron Blaze PBA on Tour Saturday series.

The Kings clobbered the Texters, 101-81, while the Sorento ripped the Elite, 80-66, in the season inaugurals Sunday.

Kia playing coach Manny Pacquiao isn’t expected to show up in Lucena since he’s back in his training for his fight with Chris Algieri in Macau in November.