SMB unleashes “The Kraken” against Phoenix

Eight-time MVP, June Mar Fajardo scored 34 points and grabbed 24 rebounds to lead the way for San Miguel Beermen’s close victory against Phoenix Fuel Masters, 111-107 at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum on Tuesday, August 21.

‘The Kraken’ might have had a monstrous game but the battle of the two teams was tough especially in the end game where the SMB needed a dagger four-point shot from CJ Perez to have enough cushion in claiming the victory.

Phoenix put up a gallant fight and pulled even at 99-all after RJ Jazul made a three-point basket entering the last two minutes of play.

Then, JMF grabbed three offensive boards against three Phoenix defenders to start a five-point swing.

After a few sequences, the Beermen’s lead was trimmed to one at 105-106 after the three free throws were sunk by Jason Perkins who finished the game with 18 points.

Then, Perez dagger 4-ball came into the picture to give SMB some breathing room as it gave them a two-possession lead.

At 107-110, the Fuel Masters still had a chance to steal the game when Ricci Rivero tried to score from the 27-foot-line but missed the target. Fajardo closed out the scoring with a split from the free throw line.

SMB import Jordan Adams scored 24 points and snared nine rebounds in his PBA debut while Phoenix reinforcement Jayveous McKinnis put up 13.

SAN MIGUEL 111- Fajardo 37, Adams 24, Perez 21, Romeo 7, Teng 6, Trollano 4, Ross 3, Manuel 3, Rosales 2, Tautuaa 2, Brondial 2, Cruz 0, Nava 0.

PHOENIX 107 - Perkins 18, Rivero 15, McKinnis 13, Alejandro 10, Tio 9, Salado 9, Jazul 6, Ballungay 5, Mocon 4, Soyud 4, Garcia 4, Tuffin 4, Verano 4, Daves 2, Muyang 0, Camacho 0.

QUARTERS: 27-17, 56-52, 86-77, 111-107