By Adrian Stewart Co

The Phoenix Pulse Fuel Masters put an end to NorthPort Batang Pier’s winning streak in the ongoing 2019 Honda PBA Commissioner’s Cup with a 97-87 win last night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Matthew Wright led the win with 28 points, including four triples; Richard Howell delivered a double-double on 18 points and 15 rebounds; and RJ Jazul contributed 17 markers.
Trailing 28-19 after the first 12 minutes, Phoenix went on a run in the second quarter behind Jazul, Wright, and Jason Perkins for a 34-32 edge. The lead grew to 43-39 at the half on perimeter hits by Bacolodnon forward-center Justin Chua.
Batang Pier started strong in the third and was able to take a slim lead but Phoenix went toe-to-toe with their opponents and tied the game up at 61-all.
Phoenix went on to take an 81-66 lead early in the fourth on baskets from Howell and Wright.
While NorthPort leaned on outside shooting to come to as close as 90-87, Phoenix iced the win with free throws from Wright and Jazul./ASC, WDJ