A BIG reason for Phoenix Super LPG’s success this conference is its import Johnathan Williams.
The Missouri and Gonzaga product who had brief stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and Washington Wizards is averaging 27.6 points, 15.8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks for Phoenix through 10 games in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
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On Wednesday, Williams delivered once again as he had 19 points as the Fuel Masters clinched twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals with a 93-83 win over Meralco, improving to 8-2 (win-loss).
For the players, it’s easy to see why Williams is a good fit for the team.
“Big factor ‘yung import namin,” said Phoenix veteran RJ Jazul. “Sa loob, walang reklamo. Kumbaga, walang toyo. Suwerte namin sa kanya.”
“All-around eh. Score, pasa, rebound, at sobrang unselfish niya. Sobrang suwerte talaga kami sa import namin,” said Jazul.
The offensive production of Williams on Wednesday was actually his lowest this conference, but still made up for it off the glass with 15 rebounds, producing another double-digit performance in the statistical category.
Williams also delivered when Phoenix faced defending champion Barangay Ginebra where he grabbed a conference-high 23 rebounds.
Even in the defeats, Williams was still very good. Against San Miguel last Christmas, he had 37 points, second-most this conference, while shooting 15-of-18 from the field, his best shooting night this conference.
Williams 'makes our jobs easy'
Jason Perkins also agrees with how Williams has impacted the team, and he hopes that he would eventually be rewarded with his play this conference.
“He is really good. He makes everyone’s job really easy for everybody. I hope he gets recognized as one of the best imports in the conference. Because he really makes our job easy,” said Perkins.
If Phoenix goes deep this conference, a Best Import trophy for Williams could indeed be a reality.
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