Phoenix extends winning streak after conquering Columbian Dyip

FILE: “Going for three in a row later! Who’s ready?!” (Photo: Phoenix Pulse Fuel Masters/Facebook)

Phoenix opened the game with a spectacular 12-point lead and sustained that for the rest of the game, with both Matthew Wright and Calvin Abueva scoring double digits, contributing 22 points and 16 points respectively. When the lead was cut down to its lowest at five points, it was also Wright that trailed their opponents further back again as he responded with a spectacular three-pointer.

As for their opponents, rookie JP Calvo proved his worth by providing Dyip with 18 points, while teammates Jackson Corpuz and Eric Camson contributed 13 points respectively. Top Rookie Draft pick CJ Perez was expected to perform after scoring 26 points during his first game in the professional league but was limited to 10 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and two blocks during the game against Phoenix, only being able to shoot 3-of-11 from the field.

According to Pulse head coach Louie Alas, he hopes “it is followed again next game,” sharing in Filipino, “We have 10 days of rest, so at least we can study and study again.” When referring to their double-digit lead, he considers it a “pattern,” stating, “We’re going to the old habit where we rely on offensive manpower. There were two times earlier in the game where we were up by 11, but when I call timeout, we don’t execute,” adding, “Then afterwards, I call timeout again, I put in the second stringers and they executed well. I told them that we won because of our defense.”

The Phoenix Pulse Fuel Masters are looking to extend their lead as they face the Blackwater Elite at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on February 1, while Columbian only has one day of rest, getting a chance to redeem themselves as they face Northport Batang Pier at the same venue on January 25.