Jason Perkins’ long-awaited return couldn’t have come at a better time for the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters. Coming off back-to-back defeats, Phoenix found its groove and pulled off a sensational 109-97 victory over defending champions Meralco Bolts in the PBA Philippine Cup Sunday, April 13, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Out for the Fuel Masters’ first two games due to flu, Perkins wasted no time reminding fans what he’s capable of. He tallied 19 points and 5 rebounds in under 28 minutes of action, breathing new life into a Phoenix squad hungry for a breakthrough.

“He’s our glue guy—defends, scores, stretches the floor. His presence just lifts everyone,” said head coach Jamike Jarin. “We just needed to relax, trust our system, and have fun out there. And tonight, we did.”

Rivero, Tio Lead Offensive Onslaught

The energy Perkins brought was contagious. Tyler Tio delivered a stellar performance with 22 points and 6 assists, while Ricci Rivero erupted for a career-high 20 points, 14 of which came during a blazing first quarter that set the tone for Phoenix.

“We’re always happy off the court. Coach just reminded us to bring that same joy into the game,” Rivero said.

Phoenix’s hot shooting helped ice the game early. After struggling from deep in their first two outings (a dismal 6-of-45 from three), the Fuel Masters erupted for 9-of-18 from beyond the arc, eventually building a massive 90-64 lead.

Meralco Falters Amid Foul Trouble and Cold Shooting

For Meralco, it was a night to forget. The Bolts opened with a dismal 5-of-26 shooting and finished at just 34.4% from the field (32-of-93). They also committed 34 fouls, giving Phoenix a whopping 50 free throw attempts.

Chris Newsome led Meralco with 18 points but fouled out with over two minutes left. Cliff Hodge also exited early due to fouls, further weakening the Bolts’ interior defense.

Despite strong individual efforts from Bong Quinto (17 points) and Raymar Jose (12 points, career-high 17 rebounds), the defending champs never recovered from an early 21-44 hole.

Scores:

Phoenix 109 – Tio 22, Rivero 20, Perkins 19, Ballungay 11, Tuffin 9, Salado 5, Jazul 5, Alejandro 3, Soyud 3, Garcia 2, Verano 2, Ular 2, Daves 2, Camacho 2, Manganti 2.

Meralco 97 – Newsome 18, Quinto 17, Jose 12, Black 12, Cansino 11, Almazan 10, Reyson 6, Rios 5, Caram 2, Torres 2, Hodge 2, Pasaol 0, Bates 0.