Phoenix Fuel Masters’ Jason Perkins. –PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines— Phoenix Super LPG used a strong finishing kick on Friday night to nip Blackwater, 111-106, in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Jason Perkins had 23 points, import Johnathan Williams III 21, while skipper RJ Jazul added 19 more off the bench and on a perfect shooting clip to help the Fuel Masters rise to 3-1 in the race.
“We’re happy [with our record], but the work to get better continues,” said coach Jamike Jarin, whose charges got a streak going in the race which put them just second to unbeaten Magnolia.
Ricci Rivero finished with 14 points, Javee Mocon had 13 and Tyler Tio 10 to round out Phoenix’s double-digit performers.
Import Chris Ortiz turned in his finest output in a Blackwater uniform with 35 points. Second overall pick Christian David and RK Ilagan added 12 each, while Rey Suerte 11 more in the losing stand that had the Bossing dropping to 1-4.
Phoenix takes on 2-2 Terrafirma Wednesday next week at the Big Dome.
Blackwater, meanwhile, goes up against Barangay Ginebra this Sunday when the crowd darlings cap a three-game week at Philsports Arena in Pasig City.