Howell bounces back, leads Talk ‘N Text over Blackwater

Richard Howell of Talk N Text (light) vs Brian Faundo (behind) and Robbie Celiz of Blackwater (dark). PBA IMAGE by Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines – Richard Howell showed why he earned a second tour of duty with Talk ‘N Text Sunday.

After a subpar outing last Wednesday, Howell redeemed himself to lead the Tropang Texters over a hard-fighting Blackwater side, 88-78, in the 2015 PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan, Laguna.

Howell came alive in the second half where he scored 27 of his 29 points, including 19 in the fourth quarter, with the Texters needing someone to keep the pesky Elite at bay.

Last season’s Best Import also grabbed 21 rebounds and had five assists to help Talk ‘N Text gain early share of the lead with Meralco at 2-0 after clipping Rain or Shine in its first game four days ago in a game where Howell struggled and was saddled by foul trouble.

The Elite absorbed their 13th straight setback spanning two conferences after going 0-11 in the Philippine Cup. They dropped their opening game against Barako Bull last Wednesday.

Blackwater though, put up quite an effort and even led by nine, 64-55, late in the third quarter before Talk ‘N Text regrouped with Howell taking charge.

With the game tied at 71, the Texters went on a 13-0 run capped by a basket by Howell for an 84-71 advantage with four minutes left.

Jayson Castro added 22 points while Jay Washington, Willie Miller and rookie Kevin Alas had eight points apiece for TNT.

Brian Faundo paced Blackwater with 19 points. Marcus Douthit filled in as the Elite’s import for the injured Chris Charles and scored 14.