PBA: Phoenix turns back Converge for second win

Phoenix Fuel Masters’ Jason Perkins in the PBA Philippine Cup. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines–Phoenix used a big third period before leaning on its poise in the final quarter on Friday night to survive Converge, 113-107, in the PBA Philippine Cup.

Jason Perkins starred with 26 points and 13 rebounds as the Fuel Masters–the feel-good story of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup–captured only their second victory in the tournament and kept the FiberXers winless.

“Guys are still finding their role within the team. You see that work tonight … it’s still going to be a work in progress, but we are on the way where we want to be,” assistant Willy Wilson, who filled in for head coach Jamik Jarin, said shortly after the triumph.

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Ricci Rivero chipped in 17 points in the effort, while Kenneth Tuffin had a double-double of his own with 16 points and 10 rebounds.

Rookie of the Year Justine Arana turned in the finest scoring performance of his young career, finishing with 32 points that went with 16 rebounds.

Alec Stockton also delivered a career-best production with 31 points. However, his and Arana’s stellar numbers couldn’t save Converge, which has dropped a total of 11 straight outings counting their 4-game slide to end the last Commissioner’s Cup.

Up next for Phoenix is perennial contender Magnolia, a club hoping to get a streak going after a win over streaking NorthPort. The two sides clash on Sunday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Malate, Manila.

Converge, meanwhile, continues its quest for a breakthrough when it goes up against the mighty San Miguel Beermen on Apri 19.