PBA: Tyler Tio ‘rusty’ but glad to be back for Phoenix

Phoenix point guard Tyler Tio.–PBA IMAGES

SCHEDULE: 2024 PBA Governors’ Cup elimination round

MANILA, Philippines—Phoenix got its chief playmaker back with the return of Tyler Tio on Wednesday night in the PBA Governors’ Cup.

Tio has not played since suffering a Grade 3 left ankle sprain last March.

“It felt great to be back on the court, it’s been months since my last PBA game so I was a bit rusty with my shots but I feel good out there. It’s nice to be healthy,” said Tio.

“I’m excited especially because we’ve been together for quite some time now. We have the same pieces for two to three years already. We have new guys coming in that can really contribute so I’m excited to play with these guys and make sure to maximize their strengths for the team.”

READ: PBA: June Mar Fajardo flashes MVP form in San Miguel victory

Tio returned with nine points, two rebounds, three assists and a steal but even his comeback wasn’t enough to help Phoenix win following a 111-107 loss to San Miguel Beer, which drew 37 points and 24 rebounds from eight-time MVP June Mar Fajardo.

A lot has happened since Tio was sidelined with the league implementing a controversial 4-point shot–which the Ateneo product feels is a step in the right direction for the PBA.

“I think it’s big in terms of how the game goes with how you protect your lead or how it’s easy to come back when you’re down by how many points. I think it’s good for the league and good for shooters, too,” said Tio.

READ: PBA: Crucial 4-point shot seals San Miguel win over Phoenix

Interestingly, it was a 4-pointer–a shot taken from 27 feet and beyond– that sealed the Beermen’s win over the Fuel Masters with CJ Perez knocking one down with less than a minute remaining in the game.

When asked if he’d be willing to hoist 4-point shots, Tio kept his answer short and simple.

“If the defense gives it, why not?”