Massive Phoenix comeback stuns Magnolia

The Phoenix Fuel Masters unleashed a blitzing 22-0 run in the final quarter to escape the Magnolia Hotshots, 91-84, in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Angeles University Foundation in Pampanga on Friday, October 23.

Matthew Wright once again topscored for Phoenix, finishing with an all-around game of 23 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists as the Fuel Masters snapped their two-game losing skid.

“We just found a way to push through,” said Wright.

“When we were down by 15, coach (Topex Robinson) just said ‘Let’s just do the right things, don’t look at the score. Let’s just focus on running the plays hard and play the game the right way.’”

“That was our good karma,” added Wright.

After only leading by 5, 39-34, at the start of the 3rd period, the Hotshots took control and stretched their lead to its biggest at 17 points, 62-45, midway through the quarter.

The Fuel Masters, however, refused to stay down and used a massive 22-0 run with 7 minutes remaining in the game and turned a 67-80 deficit to an 89-80 advantage capped by a booming JC Intal three-pointer with 1:28 left in the game.

“They just don’t want to give up. That’s the beauty of this basketball game,” said Phoenix coach Topex Robinson.

Jason Perkins had a huge game for the Fuel Masters as he finished with 20 points and 12 rebounds, while Justin Chua and RR Garcia added 14 and 12 points, respectively.

Chris Banchero led the way for the Hotshots with 20 points, while Ian Sangalang had 15 markers as Magnolia lost their third straight outing and fell to 1-4.

The Scores: 

Phoenix 91 – Wright 23, Perkins 20, Chua 14, Garcia 12, Intal 8, Jazul 7, Napoles 4, Marcelo 2, Heruela 1, Gamboa 0, Rios 0.

Magnolia 84 – Banchero 20, Sangalang 15, Reavis 12, Barroca 10, Lee 10, Dela Rosa 7, Melton 3, Jalalon 3, Calisaan 2, Corpuz 2, Abundo 0, Pascual 0.

Quarters: 22-16, 34-39, 60-71, 91-84.

– Martin Mendoza/Rappler.com