Phoenix takes down Brgy. Ginebra in Batangas

Phoenix maintained its scorching form and defeated Brgy. Ginebra, 82-77, in the PBA Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup at the newly built Fernando Poe Jr. Arena in San Jose, Batangas on Saturday, December 9.

The Fuel Masters unleashed a dizzying 18-5 run, allowing them to take control of the game early in the final quarter. Despite a familiar comeback attempt from the Gin Kings, Phoenix not only secured their fifth consecutive victory but also proved that their outstanding performance was not a fluke.

Johnathan Williams dominated against Brgy. Ginebra’s formidable trio of Christian Standhardinger, Japeth Aguilar, and Tony Bishop, finishing with 24 points and 23 rebounds.

Rookie Ken Tuffin provided valuable support with a career-high 18 points, including four crucial three-pointers. None were more significant than the one that extended Phoenix’s lead to eight, 80-72, with 2:40 remaining.

In a display of unwavering determination, LA Tenorio, the hometown favorite, successfully sank a three-pointer. Shortly after, Bishop showcased his skills by making a difficult step back jumper, reducing the deficit to three points with just 26 seconds remaining.

The crowd darlings capitalized on the next possession by forcing a turnover, giving them an opportunity to tie the game and force overtime. However, Bishop’s three-point attempt fell short, allowing Williams to secure the rebound and seal the victory with two successful free throws as time expired.

Contributing to the decisive surge in the final quarter, Jjay Alejando contributed 10 points, while Tyler Tio added seven, joining forces with Williams to lead the team. Despite being behind by five points, 58-63, the Fuel Masters rallied and built a comfortable 76-68 lead halfway into the payoff period.

Bishop paced the defending champs, scoring 21 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and dishing out six assists. Jamie Malonzo also had a commendable game, recording 20 points and 10 rebounds, his best performance of the season. Unfortunately, Standhardinger struggled and could only come up with 12 markers and 4 boards.

The Gin Kings slipped to 4-2 and will try to bounce back on Friday, December 15 against the San Miguel Beermen.

The scores:

Phoenix Super LPG 82 ā€“ Williams 24, Tuffin 18, Alejandro 10, Perkins 9, Tio 7, Muyang 7, Jazul 3, Rivero 2, Garcia 2, Manganti 0, Soyud 0, Lalata 0, Mocon 0, Daves 0, Verano 0, Camacho 0.

Brgy. Ginebra 77 ā€“ Bishop 21, Malonzo 20, Standhardinger 12, Cu 6, J. Aguilar 5, Tenorio 5, Ahanmisi 4, Pinto 3, Pringle 1.

Quarterscores: 22-20, 36-43, 58-63, 82-77.

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