The Phoenix Fuel Masters looked well on their way to an easy double-digit win against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Sunday as they led, 80-70, with under three minutes left.
But the Fuel Masters went cold offensively and allowed Ginebra to claw its way back into the game. Phoenix, though, escaped with the 81-78 win after Jeremiah Gray missed the potential game-winning four-point shot.
After the game, Phoenix coach Charles Tiu was clearly unhappy with how his team finished a game they had full control of for about 45 minutes.
“It was just us making, how do I say this, dumb mistakes, man. I mean we should’ve done a better job in the end game that was basically 10-12 points in the last minute or so,” Tiu told reporters.
Charles Tiu Credits His Players Nonetheless
While he rued his team’s dumb mistakes down the stretch, Charles Tiu was nonetheless complimentary of his players. After all, they did take control early with a 32-15 first quarter and kept Ginebra at bay up until the final whistle.
“I just give credit to the players, it’s really all them,” Tiu said. “It’s nice to have different guys contribute and step up na every game… Today may sakit si Tyler [Tio], and we had to go with other guys.”
BJ Johnson led the way with 23 points, 11 rebounds, 5 steals, and 2 blocks, while Ricci Rivero earned Best Player of the Game honors with 16 points and 9 rebounds. Kai Ballungay added 12 points, while Jason Perkins chipped in 10. Even newly acquired Gian Mamuyac had his moments.
“It’s just about making the right plays and doing what it takes for the team to win,” Tiu added.
On Sunday, the Fuel Masters did enough to pick up their third win in as many games to start their PBA Governors’ Cup campaign. But, as Charles Tiu pointed out, they will surely have to limit dumb mistakes if they are to continue their winning ways.
Phoenix will try to keep its winning streak alive when it faces the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on Tuesday, July 21.
