Tio has to be at his best when the Fuel Masters take on Meralco for the last semifinals berth.
There’s no doubt in Jamike Jarin’s mind that Tyler Tio is the next big thing not just for the Phoenix Fuel Masters, but for the entire PBA as well.
Jarin had this to say after his prized point guard proved for the nth time he could very well be Phoenix's franchise player, even in the 117-106 triple overtime loss to Meralco Bolts in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals.
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It’s hard to blame the outspoken mentor. After all, it’s not the first time Tio put up a tour-de-force performance like this one.
Tio also knocked down the biggest shots in the thrilling encounter against the Bolts. Tio ended up with 20 points, 3 rebounds, and five assists for Phoenix in the loss.
“He’s epitome of the full package,” said Jarin. “Nice kid, good-looking, well-educated, great kid, works hard.”
Coach Jamike added: “It’s a dream to have a point guard like that in your franchise. For me, having him is, I’m just fortunate."
That’s why Jarin said he is fortunate to have the former Ateneo Blue Eagle at his disposal. But he was also quick to attribute the team’s “overachieving” season to the rest of the Fuel Masters led by import Johnathan Williams.
“It’s not just him. But we’re a team that is a family. We’re not a team because we work together. We’re a team because we respect, we care, and we trust each other. That’s why were overachieving,” said Jarin.
Tio and the Fuel Masters have to be at their best again when they take on a tough Meraco side anew on Sunday for the final semifinals berth.
Gametime is set at 6:30 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.