PHOENIX snapped a four-game losing skid, beating NorthPort, 118-107, at the Philsports Arena on Wednesday to spoil the Batang Pier debut of Calvin Abueva in the PBA 49th Season Philippine Cup.
Jason Perkins led the way with 26 points while shooting 4-of-7 from three-point distance as the Fuelmasters won the battle between two teams that are no longer in contention for the playoffs, improving to 3-7 (win-loss).
SOURCES SAY NorthPort acting like a team that's about to be sold
Played his first game with the Batang Pier since being traded by Magnolia for youngster William Navarro last week, Abueva finished with 18 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks as NorthPort's losing streak extended to eight games.
The Batang Pier are now 1-8 for the conference.
Joshua Munzon also had a game-high 32 points in the NorthPort defeat.
Perkins made most of his threes when it mattered, including a conversion that started a 7-0 blast that turned an 84-83 lead into a 91-83 advantage. He also knocked down a three at the 5:14 mark for a 104-91 lead, enough gap to secure the victory
Kai Ballungay also supported Perkins by scoring 17 points and grabbing nine rebounds for Phoenix in a game between two teams which are already ousted from playoff contention.
“We got off to a good start. We moved the ball very well tonight that’s why we were able to win this game,” said Phoenix coach Jamike Jarin. “Like we always say, the most important game is the next game. We will continue to get better.”
Kenneth Tuffin had 14 points and five assists, while Ricci Rivero poured 14 points on 4 of 6 from three-point range.
The scores:
Phoenix 118 – Perkins 26, Ballungay 17, Tuffin 14, Rivero 14, Jazul 10, Tio 9, Verano 8, Garcia 5, Cullar 4, Soyud 4, Manganti 3, Ular 2, Camacho 2, Daves 0, Alejandro 0.
NorthPort 107 – Munzon 32, Abueva 18, Cuntapay 15, Flores 9, Bulanadi 8, Jalalon 7, Nava 7, Balanza 4, Taha 3, Kwekuteye 2, Yu 2, Nelle 0, Onwubere 0.
Quarters: 30-28; 56-51; 82-80; 118-107
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