Phoenix Fuel Masters’ coach Jamike Jarin within the PBA semifinals. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.n et
MANILA, Philippines—In case you think the Phoenix Fuel Masters’ fairy tale is over, you’re gravely mistaken.
After being given the boot by Magnolia in Game 4 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals, coach Jamike Jarin left the Fuel Masters’ locker room with no sense of frustration or sadness.
That’s because he believes that Phoenix’s story is yet to be over. It’s just hitting the subsequent chapter.
“The fairy tale continues to be continuous because that is only a chapter, a primary chapter so we go now to the second chapter. Now we have lots of things to stay up for. Last conference, we were eighth and now we’re fourth. That’s an enormous leap,” said Jarin at Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday.
“Tomorrow is one other day. Without delay, should you see it, things didn’t fall our way tonight, possibly they’re just falling into place for tomorrow.”
If the Fuel Masters’ final game within the import-laden conference was any indication, the locals can hang with the league’s big guns with Johnathan Williams III scoring only 17 within the defeat.
The young core of Phoenix may not have produced much within the conference-ending loss however the veteran duo of RJ Jazul and RR Garcia produced 11 and 15 points, respectively.
Phoenix may even benefit from the services of rookie Ken Tuffin within the upcoming conference. The young streaky shooter averaged 9.7 points and 4.3 rebounds per outing under Jarin.
To top all of it off, Phoenix has an rebellion floor general in the shape of Tyler Tio, who flashed his potential with averages of 9.6 points per game.
“They experienced lots, making it to the semifinals, making history, winning a playoff game within the semis, getting our hundredth win, first semis in an import-laden conference, we had lots of things.”
“[There’s] lots to be glad about than to be sorry and that’s the way you approach it. I thank every considered one of them.”
The Fuel Masters proved to be a force to be reckoned with after ending the elimination round with an 8-3 card for fourth place.
