RJ Jazul becomes the right cog for the Phoenix Fuel Masters in dismantling then-unbeaten NorthPort Batang Pier in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup.
RJ Jazul stepped up when it mattered most, leading the Phoenix Fuel Masters to their first victory in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup with a 115-109 upset over previously unbeaten NorthPort Batang Pier on Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Jazul, named Player of the Game, orchestrated Phoenix’s offense with 14 points from three triples, along with five assists, providing poise and playmaking to help the Fuel Masters improve to 1-4.
Import Donovan Smith anchored the win with 32 points, 14 rebounds, and four steals, while Jason Perkins added 24 markers.
Phoenix dominated the paint with a 60-36 edge and dished out 31 assists compared to NorthPort’s 17.
Despite NorthPort’s advantage in points off turnovers (25-19) and fastbreak points (20-7), Phoenix held firm down the stretch.
Kadeem Jack led NorthPort with 28 points, while
Arvin Tolentino had 23 as the Batang Pier dropped to 5-1. Jazul’s leadership proved pivotal in Phoenix’s breakthrough win.