Guardian of the Phoenix Tyler Tio. PBA . IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines — Tyler Tio put on another commendable performance Friday night, helping Phoenix Super LPG take out Barangay Ginebra in the PBA Commissioners Cup.
After a stellar week that earned him the PBA Press Corps Player of the Week award, the Rookie Draft’s 14th overall pick brought in 17 points along with seven assists as Fuel Masters improved. their achievement up 2-3.
“It’s an unbelievable work environment when you have veterans who trust you and they allow you to make mistakes as a rookie. That’s what we have in Phoenix,” said Tio, a product of the popular Ateneo show. 101-93 victory over Gin Kings.
To the dismay of the crowd, Tio finished with 26 career best points in one NLEX Roadmap 111-97, which also features the tournament’s most winning coach Tim Cone singing his praises as he is reminded of the young keeper’s brilliance.
“[W]I was beaten by them in a practice match before the conference started,” Cone recalled in chat before Friday night’s clash. “We were down 31 points in a practice match against them. Tyler Tio just destroyed us.”
“Tyler is becoming a superstar,” continued the Gin Kings mentor.
Filling the scoring void left by Matthew Wright, and holding the fort as the club awaited the return of injured Jason Perkins, Tio formed a rather fearsome trio with Javee Mocon and Encho Serrano, who ended up with 20 and 16 points respectively.
“I’m trying not to think about it too much because obviously, there’s more work to be done, it’s been a long season and anything can happen. I’ll just focus on the next training session and the next game,” Tio said of Cone’s comment.
Tio went on to say that he is simply paying the Ginebra franchise the respect it deserves. And he is also the first to say that his club’s victory is far from a statement going out.
“Playing Ginebra has always been a big game for the crowd and because of what Ginebra means to the country and its fellow countrymen,” he said.
Continue reading
Register INQUIRER PLUS to get access to The Philippine Daily Inquirer and more than 70 other titles, share up to 5 gadgets, listen to news, download as early as 4am and share media articles society. Call 896 6000.
For feedback, complaints or enquiries, Contact us.
