It looks like the K&K tandem of the NLEX Road Warriors has arrived
During their 93-90 victory against the Blackwater Elite on Sunday night at the Philippine Arena, Kevin Alas and Kiefer Ravena were the anchors. Alas, a four-year pro, fired a career-high of 25 points on five treys, while Ravena, a rookie, made 23 markers.
In the 10 games they have played this 2017-2018 Philippine Cup, Sunday night’s outing was just the first time that the backcourt partners unloaded 20-plus points apiece. And with perfect timing too, as they came in a win.
With that, both cagers hope that this will be the beginning of the Road Warriors’ lethal 1-2 punch, which will definitely be a huge boost in their playoff run as they have become the fourth team to enter the all-Filipino quarterfinals.
“Hopefully,” shared Ravena.
“Sana ito na yung start ng K&K,” added Alas.
Ravena has always been the man for NLEX in their past outings, which included a game-winner against the Meralco Bolts. That is why the 2017 Draft’s second overall pick couldn’t be happier with the way Alas performed against the Elite.
Photo by PBA Images
“With that performance, it’s the right time for him to regain his confidence, the Kevin Alas of last year.
“For us, it’s always a good sign when other players step up. Malaking bagay ‘pag natutulungan lahat,” the second generation cager furthered.
For Alas, his scoring explosion — which saw him break his slump from the outside after shooting just 2-for-8 in their last three outings, was just his way of providing support for Ravena.
“Kiefer was playing well, pero yung focus ng defense nasa kanya so I felt someone had to step up,” shared Alas. “‘Di lang naman pwedeng si Kiefer lang.
“I’m happy na sabay kami pumutok so I hope maging consistent kami.”
The now-dreaded tandem is expected to show up once more on February 28, as NLEX will take on sister team TNT Katropa. However, their sights aren’t set there yet, as they still have to fulfill their national team duties with SMART Gilas Pilipinas.
“Aalis na kami bukas sa Australia, yun muna focus namin ni Kiefer,” said Alas.
“Pagbalik, practice kaagad wala nang pahi-pahinga.”
