Phoenix Fuel Masters’ Ken Tuffin during the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Phoenix concluded quite the forgettable run in its PBA Governors’ Cup tournament, but at least there was a silver lining. For Ken Tuffin, at least.
On Tuesday at Novotel in Cubao during the 30th PBA Press Corps’ Awards Night, Tuffin was hailed as a member of the PBA Season 48 All-Rookie Team.
While the Fuel Masters gained little to no recognition from the ongoing import-laden conference, Tuffin is glad to be a beacon of hope for the young squad.
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“This is like a silver lining after not having the best of conferences with Phoenix but I think my individual game and team performances from the first two conferences allowed me to be recognized for this,” said Tuffin.
“I’m very thankful for Phoenix and coach Jamike (Jarin) for giving me the opportunity to play right away.”
Tuffin was part of the Fuel Masters’ lineup that had one of their best finishes in franchise history in last season’s PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
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As a rookie, the Filipino-New Zealander played years beyond his age and helped Phoenix get to the semifinals before being given the boot by Magnolia after six games.
The 2023 Draft’s sixth overall pick remains to be one of Phoenix’s cornerstones.
Joining him now in the long list of young swingmen in the Fuel Masters’ side is no less than Kai Ballungay.
If Tuffin has anything to say about it, the Ateneo product got next in terms of who will be included in next year’s All-Rookie five.
“We only have one rookie in Kai Ballungay so I wish him all the best and for sure he can be in this mix as well.”
“Hopefully I get to see him here next year. That’ll be really cool.”