Barroca scores 17 as Star blows past ice-cold Phoenix

MANILA, Philippines – The Star Hotshots came out firing in the 2017 PBA Commissioner’s Cup and simultaneously took advantage of the ice-cold Phoenix Fuel Masters for a 101-82 debut win on Wednesday, March 22 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Guard Mark Barroca topscored with 17 points and two steals while Allein Maliksi added 16 markers with both players coming off the bench.

Import Tony Mitchell had a 24-point, 16-rebound, 3-block performance as the Hotshots capitalized on the Fuel Masters’ poor shooting, missing 23 of their 25 attempts from 3.

Star, which also 10-point contributions each from PJ Simon and Ian Sangalang, powered up in the payoff period as Phoenix ran out of fuel and scored only 15 fourth quarter points compared to the Hotshots’ 29.

Phoenix debuted its new import Jameel McKay, who replayed Puerto Rico-bound Eugene Phelps, and he quickly showcased his wares with a game-high 34 points plus 20 rebounds, two steals, and 4 blocks.

JC Intal and John Wilson were the only other players to offer help offensively, combining for 23 points.

Phoenix dropped to a 1-1 record.

Scores:

Star (101): Mitchell 24, Barroca 17, Maliksi 16, Simon 10, Sangalang 10, Ramos 9, Melton 7, Jalalon 4, Lee 2, Reavis 0, Brondial 0. 

Phoenix (82): McKay 34, Intal 13, J. Wilson 10, Borboran 7, Jazul 6, Baguio 4, Dehesa 4, Lanete 2, W. Wilson 2, Kramer 0, Alolino 0, Torres 0.

Quarter scores: 30-22, 46-43, 75-67, 101-82.

– Rappler.com