In a thrilling showdown at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the NorthPort Batang Pier clinched a hard-fought victory against Phoenix Fuel Masters in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup on Friday night.
The spotlight of the game was on rookie sensation Cade Flores, who delivered a stellar performance, demonstrating his prowess on both ends of the court.
Video by One Sports
Flores, a Fil-Am rookie, showcased his talent by scoring a career-high 21 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, proving that he's a force to be reckoned with in the league. Despite fouling out in the final minutes of the game, Flores's contribution was instrumental in securing NorthPort's second consecutive win in three games.
While Flores took center stage, his teammates also stepped up to the challenge. Fran Yu, Arvin Tolentino, and Zavier Lucero provided crucial points in the closing moments, ensuring NorthPort's victory over a resilient Phoenix squad.
Lucero, who bounced back from a sluggish performance in their previous game, redeemed himself with 18 points, bolstering NorthPort's bench strength along with Jeff Chan, Yu, and Paul Zamar.
Former top rookie pick Joshua Munzon displayed an impressive all-around performance with 17 points, six rebounds, five assists, and five steals, further solidifying NorthPort's dominance on the court.
On the opposing side, Phoenix Super LPG fought valiantly, led by Jason Perkins, who delivered a game-high 28 points. Despite Perkins's efforts, Phoenix fell short of securing a win, as NorthPort's resilience proved to be too much to handle.
Tyler Tio contributed 19 points for Phoenix before exiting the game due to a sprained left ankle, while RJ Jazul, Ricci Rivero, and Kenneth Tuffin also made notable contributions.
Although Phoenix mounted a comeback, narrowing the deficit and briefly taking the lead, NorthPort maintained composure, with Yu's pivotal plays ensuring their victory down the stretch.
With this win, NorthPort moves into a share of the third spot in the standings alongside NLEX, showcasing their determination to contend in the PBA Philippine Cup. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Cade Flores and the NorthPort Batang Pier as they continue to make waves in the league.
The Scores:
NORTHPORT 124 – Flores 21, Lucero 18, Munzon 17, Tolentino 15, Yu 13, Zazmar 11, Bulanadi 6, Calma 2, Rosales 2, Paraiso 2,8Adamos 0, Amores 0, Cuntapay 0.
PHOENIX 120 – Perkins 24, Tio 19, Jazul 15, Rivero 13, Tuffin 11, Manganti 9, Mocon 8, Soyud 4, Daves 4, Alejandro 3, Muyang 2, Garcia 2, Camacho 2, Lalata 0, Verano 0.
Quarters: 35-25, 61-52, 90-80, 124-120