Magnolia stays hot with 15-point win over Phoenix

Magnolia cruised to its second consecutive victory, defeating Phoenix Super LPG 107-92 in the PBA Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup main game on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Tyler Bey had another monster game, finishing with 32 points and 16 rebounds, while dynamic guard Jio Jalalon added 20 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals as the Hotshots moved into a tie for first place with NorthPort and Meralco, all of which are 2-0.

Magnolia outscored the Jamike Jarin-mentored Fuel Masters 56-41 in the second half to turn a tight encounter into a one-sided contest after being dragged to a 51-51 tie by a young Phoenix team in the first half.

Phoenix, which stunned NLEX 113-101 in a come-from-behind victory, dropped to an even 1-1 record.

The Hotshots, who swept the PBA On Tour with an 11-0 record, continued to dominate against the Fuel Masters, winning their eighth straight game since Calvin Abueva was dealt to the SMC-owned franchise prior to the start of the 2021 Philippine Cup.

The “Beast” is yet to play this season after having hemorrhoid surgery last September.

Johnathan Williams paced the Fuel Masters with 26 points and 13 rebounds while Jayjay Alejandro led the local scoring charge with 15.

Magnolia’s sticky defense drove Phoenix into 19 turnovers, which resulted in 27 points for the Hotshots.

The more aggressive Hotshots also held a 27-16 advantage in second chance points.

The scores:

Magnolia 107 – Bey 32, Jalalon 20, Barroca 15, Lee 13, Laput 6, Eriobu 5, Sangalang 4, Dela Rosa 4, Reavis 2, Corpuz 2, Tratter 2, Dionisio 2, Murrell 0, Escoto 0.

Phoenix 92 – Williams 26, Alejandro 15, Mocon 11, Tuffin 11, Perkins 11, Manganti 5, Tio 4, Rivero 4, Jazul 3, Lalata 2, Daves 0, Verano 0, Camacho 0, Soyud 0, Muyang 0.

Quarterscores: 22-22, 51-51, 80-70, 107-92.

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