MANILA, Philippines–Columbian stunned battle-tested Phoenix Fuel, 100-98, Saturday in the 2019 PBA Commissioner’s Cup at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
The trio of skipper Rashawn McCarthy, rookie CJ Perez and import Lester Prosper delivered significant contributions anew for the Dyip.
Joining the fray was Reden Celda who nailed the teardrop shot that iced the count and helped Columbian improve to 3-7.
Though that wouldn’t have been possible if not for Glenn Khobuntin’s massive block on RJ Jazul in transition.
“We already have a slim chance in making the playoffs but my teammates still gave the best they could,” Perez said in a televised interview.
“We had successful adjustments on defense,” said coach Johnedel Cardel.
Matthew Wright was big once again for Phoenix, scoring 23 points next to reinforcement Richard Howell’s team-best 35.
The FuelMasters marksman sank a triple with 32 seconds left to play but was unable to rescue its team from slipping to a 4-5 slate.
Columbian wraps will try to end its elimination round campaign against defending champion Brangay Ginebra on July 14 at the Big Dome.
Phoenix, on the other hand, takes on struggling powerhouse San Miguel Beer and a virtually-eliminated NLEX on Wednesday and Friday, respectively.
POST-GAME INTERVIEW