PBA: Roger Pogoy embraces challenge of locking down Robert Bolick

SCHEDULE: 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Quarterfinals

NLEX Road Warriors’ Robert Bolick guarded by TNT Tropang 5G’s Roger Pogoy during a game in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—NLEX star Robert Bolick didn’t look like himself in Game 1 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals.

Because of that, the Road Warriors faltered to TNT, 96-93, at Ninoy Aquino Stadium, losing their twice-to-beat advantage.

Leading Bolick’s defensive coverage was none other than TNT’s Roger Pogoy, who took on the responsibility of limiting the NLEX star.

“That’s my job here in Talk N’ Text,” he said. “Whoever’s the best player on the other end, I own up to the responsibility of guarding him.”

Pogoy’s pesky defense limited Bolick to only 15 points, four assists and three rebounds.

The numbers, however, don’t fully show how much Bolick struggled.

He only attempted eight shots from the field. He also fouled out midway through the fourth quarter, forcing NLEX to fight without its star down the stretch.

Coach Chot Reyes was quick to acknowledge the efforts of his veteran wingman.

“That’s the value of Roger,” Reyes said of Pogoy, who finished with 15 points, three rebounds, three steals and two assists.

“If you noticed, we put Roger on him (Bolick) right away and you can’t stop a guy like Berto so the best we could do was slow him down, limit his looks and touches.”

Pogoy is expected to have his hands full again on Saturday when TNT faces NLEX in the do-or-die Game 2 at Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo.