Phoenix rode on the broad shoulders of import Donovan Smith to sink the erstwhile undefeated NorthPort, 115-109, for its first win in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Tuesday, Dec. 17.
In dire need of victory after opening the conference with four losses, the Fuel Masters seized control behind a 14-6 run to end the opening frame before Smith staved off several Batang Pier in the second half.
Smith dropped 20 of his 32 points in the third quarter to go with 14 rebounds, four steals and two blocks while Jason Perkins had 24 points before fouling out the contest.
After a slow start for Phoenix that allowed NorthPort to take an early 15-10 lead, the Fuel Masters unloaded the fiery run to seize control from there.
The Fuel Masters led by double digits for the most part of the contest even as Kadeem Jack had 28 points and six rebounds.
