Asi activated for jersey rites

MANILA, Philippines — NLEX gets an extra motivation in its skid-stopping bid tonight as Asi Taulava is poised to set a new PBA record and newly-acquired Robert Bolick up for his debut.

The Road Warriors (2-5) activated the 50-year-old Taulava and former NorthPort star Bolick yesterday ahead of their Commissioner’s Cup showdown with TNT (2-3) in the 8 p.m. main game at the PhilSports Arena.

Taulava’s deployment will enable him to play on his 24th season in the league, breaking the tie with the legendary Robert Jaworski at 23. This serves as a sweetener for the jersey retirement ceremony NLEX has set for “The Rock” at halftime.

“The activation for the Wednesday game signifies a special moment for the NLEX Road Warriors and the entire PBA community as they witness Taulava’s unparalleled dedication to the sport,” the team said yesterday.

The Road Warriors are equally excited to unleash Bolick after apparently striking a deal quickly upon acquiring his rights from the Batang Pier this week.

“In addition to Taulava, the NLEX Road Warriors will also see the debut of newly-acquired guard Robert Bolick, adding further excitement to the team’s roster,” the squad said.

This marks Bolick’s PBA comeback after his short stint with Fukushima in the Japanese B. League.

The Frankie Lim-coached crew also recalled Hesed Gabo to active duty following the departure of Don Trollano and Kris Rosales in the Bolick deal.

Like NLEX, the Tropang Giga led by Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Calvin Oftana are bent to wheel back on track after consecutive losses to Meralco and NorthPort.

The same stop-the-bleeding objective, meanwhile, is carried by Converge (0-6) and Terrafirma (2-4), which tangle in the 4 p.m. curtain-raiser.