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A Big Boost with Jason Perkins’ Return
Phoenix Super LPG finally broke into the win column in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup with a stunning 109-97 upset over the defending champions, Meralco Bolts, on Sunday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. Much of the victory’s momentum can be traced back to the long-awaited return of Jason Perkins, whose presence gave the Fuel Masters a timely morale boost—and much more.
Having missed the team’s first two outings due to the flu, Perkins returned with a vengeance. In his season debut, he delivered a solid performance, tallying 19 points and five rebounds in under 28 minutes. More than the stats, it was the energy and versatility he brought to the floor that seemed to uplift the entire Phoenix squad.
“He brings a lot to the team. He plays the big, he plays the perimeter, he plays defense. He’s just an overall player,” said Phoenix head coach Jamike Jarin. “We’re just happy he’s back with us.”
Tyler Tio and Ricci Rivero Shine Bright
While Perkins’ return was a major storyline, the Fuel Masters’ win was a total team effort—highlighted by standout performances from Tyler Tio and Ricci Rivero.
Tio, one of Phoenix’s more consistent contributors, poured in 22 points and dished out six assists, showcasing his steady hand in running the offense. Meanwhile, Rivero had a career-best night, finishing with 20 points, 14 of which came during a blistering first quarter that set the tone for Phoenix’s explosive start.
Rivero, who had averaged just 4.5 points across the team’s first two games, credited the team’s mindset shift:
“Big thing ‘yung sinabi ni coach kanina about being happy, us having fun inside the court,” he said. “Kasi the team is really happy off the court so we really have to translate it on the court—and that’s what happened today.”
Hot Shooting Fuels Early Breakaway
The Fuel Masters left no doubt in this game, dominating early and building a massive 90-64 lead at one point. A key difference-maker was their improved shooting, particularly from long range.
Phoenix nailed 9-of-18 from beyond the arc, a stark improvement from their dismal 6-of-45 combined three-point shooting in their first two outings. That efficiency gave them the cushion they needed to stave off any Meralco comeback attempts.
Coach Jarin noted that the improvement wasn’t about reinventing the game plan—it was about taking the pressure off.
“We’re all doing the right things, but we just couldn’t get the results we wanted,” he said. “Probably we were just pressuring ourselves too much. We all just gathered together, had fun, played our game, and stayed together.”
Meralco’s Early Struggles Prove Costly
On the other end, Meralco just couldn’t find its rhythm. The defending champions looked out of sync from the get-go, especially in the opening quarter where they shot a miserable 5-of-26 from the field. That early slump put them in a deep hole, and while they mounted a few runs later in the game, it wasn’t enough to undo the damage.
Overall, Meralco finished the game shooting just 32-of-93 from the field—an inefficient 34.4% clip that ultimately doomed their chances.
In addition to their shooting woes, Meralco also struggled to stay disciplined on defense. The team committed 34 fouls, leading to 50 free throw attempts for Phoenix, who converted 21 of them.
Key Performances in a Losing Effort
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Chris Newsome led the Bolts with 18 points but fouled out with over two minutes remaining.
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Cliff Hodge also fouled out, compounding Meralco’s frontcourt woes.
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Bong Quinto added 17 points.
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Raymar Jose posted a solid double-double with 12 points and a career-high 17 rebounds, showing his relentless work ethic on the boards.
Despite the individual efforts, the Bolts never recovered from the 21-44 deficit they faced in the second period.
Turning Point: Confidence and Chemistry
More than just the numbers, Phoenix’s victory was about rediscovering its identity. Through two straight losses to open the season, the Fuel Masters appeared tentative and disconnected. But with Perkins back and Rivero and Tio stepping up, the squad played with joy, unity, and purpose.
“It was really about having fun. You could see it on the court—we were more relaxed, more connected,” said Coach Jarin.
This chemistry and self-belief are what turned the tide, allowing Phoenix not only to compete with, but to dominate the reigning champions.
What’s Next?
With the win, Phoenix (1-2) gets a major confidence boost as it looks to climb the standings in the highly competitive Philippine Cup. If they continue playing like they did against Meralco—free-flowing offense, committed defense, and a connected locker room—they could become one of the tournament’s surprise contenders.
On the flip side, Meralco (1-2) now finds itself in a mini-slump after two straight losses. Coach Luigi Trillo will need to go back to the drawing board to tighten up the defense and get his stars into a rhythm offensively before the season slips away.
Final Score: Phoenix Super LPG 109, Meralco Bolts 97
Phoenix Super LPG Key Stats:
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Tyler Tio – 22 points, 6 assists
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Ricci Rivero – 20 points (career-high), 14 in 1st quarter
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Jason Perkins – 19 points, 5 rebounds
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Team 3PT shooting – 9-of-18
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Free throws – 21-of-50 attempts
Meralco Key Stats:
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Chris Newsome – 18 points, fouled out
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Bong Quinto – 17 points
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Raymar Jose – 12 points, 17 rebounds
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Team FG shooting – 34.4% (32-of-93)
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Fouls committed – 34
A New Chapter for Phoenix?
Phoenix Super LPG’s breakthrough win wasn’t just an upset—it may be a sign of things to come. With a healthier lineup, restored confidence, and players stepping into their roles, the Fuel Masters are showing glimpses of their true potential. For Meralco, the loss highlights lingering issues on both ends of the floor that need to be addressed quickly.
One thing is certain: the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup is heating up—and this statement win from Phoenix just made things a whole lot more interesting.
The Scores :
PHOENIX 109 – Tio 22, Rivero 20, Perkins 19, Ballungay 11, Tuffin 9, Salado 5, Jazul 5, Alejandro 3, Soyud 3, Garcia 2, Verano 2, Ular 2, Daves 2, Camacho 2, Managanti 2.
MERALCO 97 – Newsome 18, Quinto 17, Jose 12, Black 12, Cansino11, Almazan 10, Reyson 6, Rios 5, Caram 2, Torres 2, Hodge 2, Pasaol 0, Bates 0.
QUARTERS: 31-13, 58-37, 91-68, 109-97