Phoenix Super LPG returned to the win column in emphatic fashion, dismantling Blackwater, 125-108, in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Friday at the Ynares Center in Montalban.

The Fuel Masters leaned heavily on the dominant presence of import James Dickey III, who controlled the paint from start to finish. His relentless effort allowed Phoenix to dictate the tempo and create separation early in the contest.

Dickey tallied 27 points and an eye-popping 26 rebounds, while also contributing five assists. He added three steals and three blocks, delivering a complete performance that overwhelmed Blackwater on both ends of the floor.

“I love his energy today, his motor was great. He rested yesterday, he was a bit sore and we just wanted to make sure he was fresh,” said Phoenix coach Charles Tiu.

“But give him all the credit, he was solid protecting the basket, he was pushing the pace, setting up a lot of guys like KT here for open looks with all those hand-offs,” he added.

Phoenix depth shines in bounce-back win

Support came in waves for Phoenix, with Jason Perkins firing 25 points and Kenneth Tuffin adding 20 markers along with seven rebounds. The second unit proved decisive, outscoring Blackwater’s bench, 66-29, to stretch the lead to as much as 28 points late in the game.

The victory lifted Phoenix to a 4-3 record, putting them back on track after consecutive defeats. More importantly, it reinforced their position in the race for a playoff berth.

“It just feels nice to get back with a win. A two-game losing streak’s tough, the morale’s down and we’re just happy we found a way to win,” Tiu said.

“I still think we can get better. I’m upset with our last two losses against NLEX and Ginebra. I still feel that we could have won those games so still disappointed there. But, of course, you can’t complain at this point we have a winning record,” he added.

“Sabi ko naman at the start of the conference our goal is just to try and make the playoffs so at least we’re still in the hunt and that’s what matters.”

Blackwater struggles continue amid injuries

Blackwater’s slide worsened as it absorbed a fourth straight loss, falling to 1-6 and inching closer to elimination from playoff contention.

Robert Upshaw remained a bright spot, posting another 36-point outing, while Sedrick Barefield chipped in 27. However, the team lacked the depth and consistency needed to keep up with Phoenix’s balanced attack.

The absence of key players Dalph Panopio, Jed Mendoza, and RK Ilagan due to injuries further weakened the Bossing’s rotation. Paul Zamar and BJ Andrade tried to fill the void with 14 and eight points, respectively, but the team struggled to sustain any momentum.

Perimeter shooting also continued to haunt Blackwater. After a poor showing in their previous game, they again faltered from long range, converting just 1-of-17 attempts, allowing Phoenix to maintain control throughout the matchup.