Phoenix Super LPG head coach Topex Robinson had a simple reminder for his wards as they began life without Chris Banchero on Sunday.
The Fuel Masters no longer have the Fil-Italian playmaker in the fold. He signed a three-year max deal with Meralco as a free agent during the break, ending his tenure with the ball club that lasted for almost a year.
“Chris really was a big part of our team, and we just reminded that CB is a part of it, but not the whole of it,” said the young mentor.
“So whichever part that lost from CB, somebody else will fill that spot.”
And Robinson couldn’t feel more elated to witness his guys take that message to heart with the way they played against TNT.
Phoenix overcame adversity and took down the Tropang Giga, 93-92, to collect their fourth win in six games in the 2022 Governors’ Cup.
Matthew Wright led the assault with 27 points and 10 assists, but four more Fuel Masters finished in double figures in the victory.
RJ Jazul had 16 points, five rebounds, and two assists. New import Domonique Sutton had 13 points and 10 rebounds. Jason Perkins provided 12 points, while young gun Sean Manganti added 10 markers.
Photo by PBA Images
“It’s always gonna be everybody helping each other out,” said Robinson.
“Whoever has a chance to contribute in any way that they can, especially defensively… That’s really much appreciated on this team.”
High was the cager-turned-coach on his team’s defense, since he felt that they covered up the defensive intensity Banchero brought to the team.
And that was best exemplified by their stars Wright and Perkins. The former was the one who stole the ball away from TNT veteran Jayson Castro. That then paved the way for his breakaway go-ahead layup with 1.3 seconds left.
Perkins, on the other hand, prevented the Tropa from stealing their thunder. He blocked the shot of counterpart Troy Rosario at the buzzer.
“We lost CB, and CB was the focal point of our defense. And I guess, everybody was just challenged to fill up for that defensive intensity by CB,” he said.
“Matt played well on that last play, defensively, anticipated that play, read the opportunity. And again, just went all the way and made them pay for their turnover,” Robinson opined.
“So, again, it’s everybody’s effort. Dominique played well, also defensively, and I guess Jansen Rios really played tremendous defense this afternoon. And the rest of the other guys supported him.”
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