Ricci Rivero delivered a career-defining performance, erupting for 40 points to power Phoenix Super LPG to a commanding 133-105 victory over Terrafirma in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Wednesday, March 25, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The win allowed the Fuel Masters to bounce back in emphatic fashion while halting Terrafirma’s unbeaten run.

Rivero knocked down seven three-pointers and dictated the tempo for Phoenix, leading a relentless offensive assault that overwhelmed the Dyip. His breakout game set the tone for a dominant showing from start to finish.

Rivero fuels Phoenix breakaway with second-quarter explosion

The turning point came late in the second quarter when Phoenix unleashed a decisive 26-8 run. Rivero spearheaded that stretch with 14 points, transforming a tight contest into a 56-46 halftime cushion.

He carried that momentum into the second half, pouring in 19 more points as Phoenix stretched its lead to as much as 109-77. Rivero also contributed six rebounds and eight assists, underlining his all-around impact in the blowout win.

Rivero later credited his confidence to the trust instilled in him by coach Charles Tiu, emphasizing the importance of staying ready and believing in his shot despite earlier struggles from beyond the arc. That mindset translated into his most explosive performance of the conference.

Balanced attack and defense overwhelm Terrafirma

Phoenix’s dominance was anchored on a collective effort, with five players finishing in double figures. Rookie Francis Escandor delivered a career-best 20 points, while James Dickey III imposed his presence with a 14-point, 13-rebound double-double along with defensive contributions.

Evan Nelle added 14 points as the Fuel Masters shot an efficient 52.8 percent from the field, including 19 three-pointers. Their outside shooting proved too much for Terrafirma to handle throughout the contest.

Jerrick Ahanmisi paced Terrafirma with 37 points, but the team struggled to generate consistent support. Import Mubashar Ali, who entered the game with dominant averages, was limited to just 13 points due to Phoenix’s focused defensive scheme.

Coach Charles Tiu stressed that containing Ali was a primary objective, and the execution of that plan played a key role in securing the win. With Rivero leading the charge and the team delivering on both ends, Phoenix produced one of its most complete performances of the conference.