NLEX coach Jong Uichico embraces ‘HaliBerto’ moniker given to star guard Robert Bolick

The NLEX Road Warriors have enjoyed a brilliant run in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup, winning eight and losing just two of their 10 games to sit at the top of the standings.

Central to their impressive form has been the performance of star point guard Robert Bolick, who has led from the front both on the court and in terms of leadership. Bolick’s clutch performances and charisma have earned him the nickname “HaliBerto”—a nod to Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton, known for his ability to deliver in crunch time.

Road Warriors head coach Jong Uichico has embraced the nickname given to Bolick but emphasized that the 29-year-old contributes far beyond just scoring. He praised the guard for his game sense and ability to read the flow of play.

NLEX’s Robert Bolick and coach Jong Uichico after their hard-fought dub over Magnolia. | @MeloFuertesINQ pic.twitter.com/NR85x32Ho8

— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) June 6, 2025

“Siguro nga (on people calling Bolick ‘Haliberto’) kasi he makes the big shots. Pero ‘yung pinaka-importante, alam niya ‘yung role niya. He doesn’t have to score from the start. He stays consistent and gives confidence to his teammates,” Uichico said in a media interaction.

“Bolick is a pillar. Siya ang lider namin, and everybody feeds off Berto. And Bolick, on the other hand, is giving everyone the confidence na magsuporta sa kaniya,” he added.

The guard has been in fine form for NLEX ever since joining the team in 2023 and delivered again during the Road Warriors’ 107–99 comeback victory over the Magnolia Hotshots on Friday, June 6, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. Bolick finished with 25 points, nine rebounds, and five assists to help his team erase a 19-point deficit and clinch a twice-to-beat advantage in the upcoming Philippine Cup quarterfinals.

“Pag hindi siya kinover, siya ‘yung mag-Haliberto. Pero pag kinober siya, alam niya na may kumpiyansa siya sa mga kasama niya,” Uichico reiterated.

Uichico will hope Bolick continues his strong form in NLEX’s final elimination-round game against the NorthPort Batang Pier on Wednesday, June 11, at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

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