After their breakthrough win against the previously unbeaten NorthPort Batang Pier, the Phoenix Fuel Masters aim to add more to their tank by slugging it out against the Converge FiberXers in the PBA Commissioner's Cup.
With their first PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup win in the books, the Phoenix Fuel Masters set their sights on taking down another up-and-coming challenger in the form of the Converge FiberXers.
Two teams coming off important wins will open the festivities this Thursday, December 19 at 5:00 p.m. in the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Phoenix finally barged into the winning column after a 115-109 upset of the previously unbeaten NorthPort Batang Pier.
The much-needed victory ended a four-game losing streak to start the tournament for the now 1-4 Fuel Masters.
Import Donovan Smith delivered a dominant performance of 32 points and 14 rebounds with Jason Perkins, Ken Tuffun, and RJ Jazul combining for 53 markers to lead the local support.
Jazul eventually earned the Player of the Game honors in that game with his timely buckets and veteran leadership playing a big part for Phoenix in the endgame.
[ALSO READ: PBA: RJ Jazul helps Phoenix wake up from a nightmare start with big win vs Northport]
"We're 1 and 4 right now, and we'd continue to work hard to get the next win," said head coach Jamike Jarin in the aftermath of their breakthrough win.
It will be the second game in three days for Phoenix, who will return to action next year against the winless Terrafirma Dyip (0-6) following the league's Christmas break.
(With reports from Pao Ambat)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]