Phoenix Fuel Masters’ Jason Perkins against TNT Tropang 5G defenders during a PBA Philippine Cup game. –PBA IMAGES
MONTALBAN, Rizal—Phoenix sent Grand Slam-eyeing TNT deep into a 0-3 hole in the PBA Philippine Cup after leaning on a huge start to take a 95-81 victory on Friday at Ynares Center II here.
Jason Perkins led the early onslaught on his way to 27 points on top of six rebounds and three assists as the Fuel Masters recovered from their out-of-town loss to the Magnolia Hotshots in Zamboanga City.
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That put the Fuel Masters at 2-3, having also beaten defending champion Meralco.
Tyler Tio had 16 points, three rebounds and four assists while Ken Tuffin and rookie Kai Ballungay added 10 apiece for Phoenix.
Phoenix led by a high of 26 that spelled doom for TNT, which dropped to its worst start since the 2000 All-Filipino Cup when the then-Mobiline Phone Pals started 0-3.
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Calvin Oftana produced 20 points, nine rebounds and six assists but the Tropang 5G couldn’t get out of their funk once more.
And TNT will need a quick turnaround before facing a tough San Miguel Beer ballclub on Sunday at Ynares Center in Antipolo.
Simon Enciso pumped in 14 points on four triples but it wasn’t enough to help TNT’s cause.
The Fuel Masters, on the other hand, will be playing the Beermen on May 11 at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
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RJ Jazul was the other Phoenix player in double figures with 10.
