29 points, 26 rebs for Phelps.
ANTIPOLO CITY – Phoenix Fuel got a big win that pushed the new PBA team closer to its first quarterfinal berth as it eliminated Blackwater with a 93-81 victory in the season-ending Governors’ Cup last night at the Ynares Sports Center here.
Phoenix import Eugene Phelps delivered another dominant performance as he scored 29 points and grabbed 26 rebounds – the third 20-20 for the player known by his moniker ‘El Destructor.’
The victory improved the win-loss record of the Fuel Masters to 5-4, taking solo sixth place in the team standings – one win away from earning its first playoff spot since it joined the pro league last conference when it purchased the existing franchise of Barako Bull.
Meanwhile, Rain or Shine has tabbed former PBA import Josh Dollard to replace Jason Forte. Dollard, who played for Barako Bull in 2014, arrived yesterday and was present at the team’s practice session.
Dollard, who averaged 32.56 points and 15.22 rebounds for the Energy in 2014, is expected to play when ROS meets SMB on Saturday at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena in Pasay City.
Scores:
PHOENIX 93 – Phelps 29, Borboran 15, Enciso 12, Baguio 10, Buenafe 8, W. Wilson 7, Urbiztondo 6, Caperal 3, Cruz 2, Pennisi 1, Lee 0, Lanete 0, J. Wilson 0, Miranda 0.
BLACKWATER 81 – Dela Cruz 18, Lastimosa 18, King 14, Pinto 9, Miranda 8, Sena 6, Gamalinda 4, Golla 2, Pascual 2, Eguilos 0, Reyes 0, Sumang 0.
Quarters: 25-20: 47-41; 65-61; 93-81.