PBA: Phoenix makes case for quarterfinals spot, sinks Globalport

Phoenix continued to fight for a quarterfinals spot after destroying Globalport, 135-108, in the 2018 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Fuel Masters got to a 4-6 record to keep their head afloat while the Batang Pier dropped to 4-5.

Eugene Phelps dropped a ridiculous triple-double of 37 points, 23 rebounds, and 10 assists—the first 30-20 triple-double in 20 years—for Phoenix in a game that was ultimately decided in the first 12 minutes.

Phoenix raised fire and brimstone in the first quarter, scorching the Batang Pier for a 41-22 lead that eventually became the foundation for the Fuel Masters’ 135-point franchise record of most points in a single game.

“Hopefully this will be the start of something big for us,” said Phoenix head coach Louie Alas whose team has suffered disappointing losses despite leading by double digits.

The Fuel Masters, prior to facing the Batang Pier, lost three of their last four games when they put up double-digit leads.

“It’s good that we’re still breathing. And this is what we’ve been waiting for, for us to have a breakout game wherein we’ve managed to hold on to the lead,” added Alas in Filipino.

Matthew Wright finished with 24 points, on 6-of-8 shooting from three, for Phoenix while RJ Jazul missed out on a double-double after putting up 11 points and eight boards.

Malcolm White had 24 points and six rebounds to lead the Batang Pier.