JASON Perkins has one wish going to Phoenix’s knockout game against Meralco on Sunday for the last semifinals berth of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
“I hope Cliff (Hodge) doesn’t play the next game,” he said with that baby smile on his face.
Perkins ready for Hodge
Of course, the Phoenix big man was just kidding. He’s ready to face the challenge of going up again opposite Meralco’s best interior defender in a match up that best typifies this heated quarterfinals series pitting two of the league’s blue-collar teams.
Hodge and Perkins went mano-a-mano in their initial outing that went into triple overtime before the Bolts prevailed, 116-107.
The 35-year-old Hodge, though, failed to finish the game as he went down with a sprained ankle after stepping on the foot of rookie Ken Tuffin late in the first overtime period.
He finished with a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds, while going 10-of-12 from the field.
Perkins also hobbled his way during the game due to cramps. Unlike Hodge, he managed to return to the game and had 20 points and four rebounds on 7-of-12 shooting on the floor.
Perkins: 'I love Cliff'
A former Rookie of the Year, Perkins admitted one of his favorite players since college at La Salle brings out the best in him.
“Cliff is making me work hard for my points. And that’s why I love Cliff. He’s a great player,” he said.
“I like him and what he brings to the game. I like him being aggressive, which helps make me better, and makes all of us better.”
Perkins said he’s definitely good to go in the 6:30 p.m. match at the Mall of Asia Arena, and he certainly looks forward seeing and battling Hodge on the opposite end of the court.
“Of course I don’t wish anybody getting hurt. Cliff brings to the games those which are not in the stats sheet, and that’s big. Makes the game more fun playing against Cliff for sure,” added the Phoenix main man.
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