(UPDATE) NLEX staved off a near collapse by fending off Kia's fight-back in the second half to win 100-93 in the PBA Governor's Cup at Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.

Despite suffering a cut in his hand, Aaron Fuller registered a double-double of 24 points and 19 rebounds to help the Road Warriors remain unbeaten in 2 games.

“We got ourselves mentally out of the game,” said NLEX coach Yeng Guiao, who was ejected midway through the 4th quarter after incurring his second technical.

“We could have finished the game strong but we were not able to, we relaxed too early. Our execution was bad in the last quarter. Defensively, we lost focus.”

Guiao, however, remained positive especially after his squad registered its best start in three conferences.

“I think the confidence level is better. We were really excited before this game because there's something good happening in the team. We feel there is a transformation in the team,” he said.

“We're getting good effort, balanced effort from everybody. We know that we're playing a lot better than the last two conferences.”

NLEX built a comfortable 24-point lead after two quarters, 64-40, but was limited to just 36 after the break.

Fortunately, NLEX was able to hang on the lead and complete the victory even after losing Guiao to ejection.

Kevin Alas added 13 points and 5 boards, while Carlo Lastimosa scored all his 13 points in the first quarter.

Markieth Cummings had 30 points and 14 rebounds for the Picanto.

(For more sports coverage, visit the ABS-CBN Sports website.)