By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The NLEX Road Warriors are not taking issues lightly after sending import Thomas Robinson home with only four games into the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Conference.
NLEX wrote an official statement last November 29, 2023, regarding their decision to part ways with the former NBA import due to a series of misconducts.
According to NLEX team manager Larry Fonacier, Robinson took an unplanned vacation and missed a significant time in their practice sessions.
“Thomas Robinson’s departure from the NLEX Road Warriors was a difficult but necessary decision. We value discipline, commitment, and teamwork, and unfortunately, his taking an unplanned vacation, and skipping team practices, compromised these principles,” said Fonacier.
With Robinson as their import, the Road Warriors were able to hang on to a 2-2 win-loss record and are currently ranked as the no. 6 team in the ongoing Commissioner’s Cup.
The high-flying big man is off to a stellar start after averaging 34.5 points, 13.25 rebounds, 1.75 steals, and 1.75 blocks in just four games.
“The team’s success depends on a collective effort and a shared commitment, and we will continue to uphold these standards as we forge ahead in the season,” added Fonacier.
Replacing Robinson as NLEX’s newest reinforcement is Stokley Chaffee Jr., an American bruiser from Tennessee State.
A versatile power forward who possesses an inside and outside game, the Road Warriors expect a great replacement to their already ailing squad after Kevin Alas went down with a torn ACL injury.
Chaffee Jr. will make his highly-anticipated PBA debut on December 1, 2023, when the Road Warriors take on the Magnolia Chicken Timplados in the second game of the double-header schedule.
