Phoenix decimates Kia
Phoenix Petroleum started to show a newfound confidence and improved game in its second game under new coach Louie Alas, blasting Kia, 125-102, in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo last night.
The Fuel Masters played a no-nonsense game on both ends and pummeled the Picanto in all quarters as they fashioned out the most lopsided game in PBA Season 43 thus far.
Matthew Wright, Justin Chua and JC Intal put in 15 points each with Gelo Alolino, RJ Jazul, Jason Perkins and Joseph Eriobu also making double-digit outputs as the Fuel Masters bounced back strong from their 96-104 loss to the San Miguel Beermen on opening day.
The Picanto tried their luck heavily from the outside but made only 10-of-29 three-point attempts as they suffered a second straight loss following a 115-119 defeat at the hands of the NLEX Road Warriors a week ago.
The Fuel Masters battered the Picanto underneath the basket and around the perimeter area, and also used their deeper bench in ripping Kia and handing Alas his first win in his comeback as a PBA head coach.
Phoenix enjoyed a 22-point advantage on bench production.
“We can’t shake off the excitement because we really wanted to win the game,” said Alas.
“From this moment, we have to practice as hard as we can and show our best individual defense and team defense,” added Alas, known for his lockdown defense in his college coaching.
Perkins, the No. 4 draft selection, shone bright on both ends, collecting 12 points, nine rebounds, six assists and one steal in 26 minutes of action.
Top gun Jeff Chan was down with the flu but he’s expected to be back in their next game.
Nonetheless, the Fuel Masters didn’t lack the firepower, seizing control right away and leading by as many as 29 before wrapping up the breakaway victory.
The Picanto actually had a good run to start the second half, narrowing down a 13-point lead, 40-53, to seven but faded away as quickly. —