Phoenix comes back from 17 down to beat Rain or Shine

Phoenix Super LPG finally arrested its slump after completing a come-from-behind win over Rain or Shine, 78-77, in the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup Wednesday in Bacolor, Pampanga.

The Fuel Masters trailed by as many as 17 points but a spurt late in the game — and a clutch shot from Matthew Wright — handed them their second win in six outings while the Elasto Painters dropped to 4-3.

Staring at a 15-point deficit early in the fourth quarter, 74-59, Phoenix exploded for a 17-0 run capped by five straight markers from RR Garcia as they stole the lead, 76-74.

Rain or Shine veteran Gabe Norwood answered back with a jumper to tie the game at 76 apiece but Wright, who had been struggling offensively all throughout the game, buried a crucial jump shot to make it a 78-76 affair with only 2.6 seconds left.

Wright then fouled Beau Belga, who had a chance to tie the game but could only come away with a split from the charity stripe as Phoenix escaped with the win.

Garcia led the offensive charge for Phoenix with 18 points, three rebounds, and four assists while Jason Perkins and Chris Banchero added 18 and 14 markers, respectively.

Wright's game-winner was his only made field goal in the contest as he finished with four points on 1-for-15 shooting from the field and 2-for-3 from the free throw line. He and Perkins, though, both tallied 12 rebounds and five assists apiece, tied for game-high honors.

Rain or Shine, meanwhile, leaned on Javee Mocon who listed 17 points across his name to go along 12 boards and three assists. Belga chipped in 17 markers while Norbert Torres registered 12.

—JMB, GMA News