Borboran’s tip-in completes Phoenix’s comeback over GlobalPort

MANILA, Philippines – The Phoenix Fuelmasters rallied from a deficit as large as 26 and capped off their comeback thanks to a tip-in by Mark Borboran with 2.4 seconds remaining to defeat the GlobalPort Batang Pier, 101-99, on Wednesday, December 28, at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Despite the game looking close to a loss in the third quarter, the Fuelmasters took control in the final period where they outscored the Batang Pier, 40-15. 

The win improved Phoenix’s record to 4-3, while GlobalPort, which lost its second straight contest, fell to the same win-loss output in the Philippine Cup.

Borboran led all scorers in his team with 23 points plus 8 boards, while Matthew Wright finished with 19 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists. 

Terrence Romeo led GlobalPort with 32 points and 9 assists, while Stanley Pringle had 15 points and 6 rebounds.

Cyrus Baguio converted 5 straight points to cut GlobalPort’s lead to 96-93 with 1:51 left. After a Romeo turnover, Baguio hit another lay-up to make it a one-point game.

After KG Canaleta couldn’t stop the bleeding with a missed 3-ball, JC Intal took advantage by hitting a lay-up to give Phoenix the edge.

Wright then made a pair of free throws to make it a 3-point game, but he fouled Romeo on the next possession while the GlobalPort star was taking a 3-pointer.

Romeo made all free throws to tie the contest, but on the next play, Borboran rebounded a Simon Enciso miss and hit what became the game-winner. 

Scores:

Phoenix (101): Borboran 23, Wright 19, Enciso 14, Intal 9, Baguio 7, J. Wilson 7, Alolino 6, Torres 5, Lanete 5, Caperal 4, Hayes 2, W. Wilson 0

GlobalPort (99): Romeo 32, Pringle 15, Pennisi 12, Quinahan 10, Pessumal 10, Canaleta 8, Mamaril 4, Maierhofer 4, Cortez 4, Aban 0

Quarter scores: 20-22, 42-53, 61-84, 101-99 – Rappler.com