IT pays to have a short-term memory for Jason Perkins.
The Phoenix Pulse sophomore buried a three-pointer that turned out to be the game-winner in an 89-87 win over Magnolia - the Fuel Masters' eighth in nine games in a dream start to the PBA Philippine Cup.
Perkins finished with 12 points as he atoned for his struggles in his last game against Alaska when he only scored six points, shot 3 of 8 from the field, and committed five fouls in Phoenix's 94-80 win last March 1.
“I have a short-term memory. I forgot about my last game. It was a totally new game. Everyday is a new day,” said Perkins.
Perkins nailed the game's biggest basket with 19.1 seconds left, giving Phoenix Pulse an 88-87 lead. Perkins later hit a free throw before Paul Lee missed a desperation three-point attempt to end the game.
The reigning Rookie of the Year credited Matthew Wright for making the pass to set up his wide-open shot from the deep right corner.
“I could have played better,” said Perkins. “But Matt made a good pass. They doubled Matt. Matt has high IQ, he makes good reads, and he found me open at the corner.”
Perkins said the grind-out win will only make his team better as the Fuel Masters move into the final stretch of the elimination round for games against Barangay Ginebra on Sunday and San Miguel on March 16.
“It was tough. I think we only had the lead twice. It was off Matt’s three-pointer and my three-pointer. We have to work on that one. That built our character. I think it’s going to be good for us going to our game against Ginebra. I’m excited,” said Perkins.
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