Finally, the much-celebrated duo of Robert Bolick and Javee Mocon is starting to make beautiful music together in NLEX.
High expectations surrounded the pair when Mocon was traded to NLEX from Phoenix back in September 2024, reuniting him with Bolick—his longtime partner-in-crime during San Beda’s NCAA three-peat from Seasons 92 to 94.
That long-awaited potential was on full display last Sunday when the Road Warriors faced the Fuel Masters.
Bolick delivered another all-around performance with 20 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists — without a single turnover. Mocon complemented him with 23 points and nine rebounds, leading NLEX to a crucial 105-95 victory and securing a playoff spot in the PBA Philippine Cup.
“Hindi naman sa masaya — basketball lang ‘to at kailangan talaga naming manalo kasi kailangan namin ng twice-to-beat advantage,” Bolick said about the win.
What made the victory even more meaningful was that it came against Jamike Jarin — the same coach who guided them to their first NCAA title together in Season 92.
“Nostalgic yung feeling, eh. Parang nangyari na ‘to dati, so hindi siya bago sa amin,” shared Mocon.
(C) PBA Images
Jarin played a pivotal role in both of their careers.
He was the one who called Bolick in the summer of 2015 and convinced him to transfer from De La Salle University to San Beda.
“Siyempre masaya rin kasi panalo kami, pero big respect parati kay Coach Jamike. Kasi nung nawala ako sa La Salle, siya agad yung unang tumawag sa akin,” said Bolick.
“Kung hindi niya ako binigyan ng opportunity sa San Beda, hindi ko alam kung ano na ang nangyari sa akin.”
Also present at the game was Red Lions team manager Jude Roque, who is also working as an analyst for PBA Rush. His presence added to the emotion of the night.
“Kay Boss Jude, masaya kami kasi isa siya sa best managers pagdating sa team building. Kaya every time na nandiyan siya, at least masaya siyang makita yung mga players niya from San Beda na nag-thrive sa PBA,” added Bolick.
For both Bolick and Mocon, a game like this is one they’ll hold onto as they continue their playoff journey. With momentum on their side, the duo is determined to create something special for NLEX.
They hope to rekindle the same magic they once had with the Red Lions — this time in Road Warriors blue.
“It gives us perspective sa career namin. Hopefully, magtuloy-tuloy pa,” said Mocon.
