PBA: Phoenix pulls away early in rout of Terrafirma

MANILA, Philippines–Phoenix drew a big game from import Johnathan Williams in dominating Terrafirma, 103-84, Wednesday to continue a splendid start in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Williams finished with 29 points, 13 rebounds and four assists as the Fuel Masters claimed their fourth win in five games, the team’s best start in an import-flavored conference.

The Fuel Masters pulled away in the second quarter with Williams playing the lead role to frustrate a Dyip that suffered a second straight defeat despite the return of import Thomas de Theay and ace scorer Juami Tiongson. Terrafirma fell to a record of two wins and three defeats.

RJ Jazul added 13 points with three triples, providing support for what was a day where Williams shone the brightest for Phoenix.

Jason Perkins had 11 points and five rebounds while rookie Ricci Rivero and Tyler Tio added 10 apiece in the Fuel Masters’ triumph.

De Theay finished with 18 points and 14 rebounds for the Dyip in his return after sitting out last week’s 133-93 loss to the TNT Tropang Giga with a groin injury.

Tiongson was held to 10 points on 4-of-14 shooting while top overall pick Stephen Holt was held to two points on 1-of-12 shooting despite eight rebounds and five assists.

The scores:

PHOENIX 103—Williams 29, Jazul 13, Perkins 11, Tio 10, Rivero 10, Tuffin 8, Verano 7, Soyud 6, Lalata 4, Camacho 3, Garcia 2, Daves 0, Alejandro 0, Manganti 0.

TERRAFIRMA 84—De Thaey 18, Gomez de Liano 13, Daquioag 12, Tiongson 10, Carino 9, Cahilig 7, Miller 6, Go 3, Holt 2, Ramos 2, Alolino 2, Olivario 0, Calvo 0, Camson 0.

Quarters: 23-19, 48-32, 78-55, 103-84.