Donovan Smith led the charge for the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters in a commanding 122-108 victory over Terrafirma on Tuesday evening in the 49th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
The 6’9” Smith delivered a stellar performance, racking up 37 points to secure Phoenix’s second win of the tournament. His dominant first-half effort, where he scored 23 of his total points, set the tone for the Fuel Masters’ control of the game, giving them a 60-49 lead at halftime.
Head coach Jamike Jarin praised Smith’s pivotal role in the win, saying, “The reason we won is because of this guy. We talked about the need to get it together defensively, and he delivered.”
Smith was particularly unstoppable in the second quarter, pouring in 14 points to help Phoenix establish an 11-point lead before the third quarter began.
Supporting Smith’s heroics, Jason Perkins contributed 16 points, including 10 in the final quarter, helping the Fuel Masters rally from an 84-88 deficit. Ricci Rivero also made a significant impact with 14 points and five assists, scoring 10 of his points in the final stretch.
Perkins and Rivero combined to fuel a critical surge, pushing Phoenix ahead 93-86 with 10:49 left on the clock. Smith then capped off the game with crucial defensive plays, ensuring Phoenix maintained their dominance until the final buzzer.
With this victory, the Fuel Masters improved to 2-5, keeping their quarterfinal hopes alive. To secure a spot in the playoffs, they will need to win their remaining five games.
