(PBA image)
Titan Ultra kept its postseason hopes breathing on Sunday night, leaning on late-game grit and a monster performance from Calvin Abueva to survive Phoenix, 127-119, in a high-octane PBA Philippine Cup clash at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
With their backs pressed firmly against the wall, the Giant Risers delivered when it mattered most, erupting in the fourth quarter to notch their second straight win and stay mathematically alive for the final quarterfinals slot. The victory pushed Titan to 4-6, setting up a season-defining showdown against Barangay Ginebra on December 21.
Abueva was the undeniable centerpiece of the night, bullying his way to 35 points and 17 rebounds in one of his most imposing outings of the conference. The energy forward also dished out four assists, picked off two steals, and swatted a shot, embodying the urgency of a team fighting to extend its season.
“Etong game na ito important sa amin kasi one step na lang,” Abueva said. “Ginebra na lang, quarters na. Kaya huwag na naming sayangin itong pagkakataon.”
But Titan’s survival was far from a one-man act. Aris Dionisio and Joshua Munzon each scored 21 points, with Munzon drilling a massive four-pointer in the final minute that stretched the lead to 121-117 and tilted the momentum for good. Jerick Balanza added 17 points, while Fran Yu orchestrated the offense with 14 points and 10 assists.
What pleased coach Johnedel Cardel most was his team’s composure under pressure. Titan absorbed multiple blows in the third quarter, falling behind by as many as 11 points as Phoenix threatened to pull away. Instead of folding, the Giant Risers responded with steady defense and timely shot-making, flipping the script with a 31-26 advantage in the final frame.
“Ipinakita ulit ng Titan na kapag lahat nagko-contribute sa offense at defense, mas nagiging madali ang panalo,” Cardel said, while quickly reminding his players that the job remains unfinished. “May isa pa kaming game. At least may chance pa.”
Phoenix, which closed its first season under coach Willy Wilson with a 3-8 record, looked poised for a strong finish after leading 60-56 at halftime and stretching the gap to 67-56 and later 90-79. Jason Perkins led the Fuel Masters with 24 points, while Ricci Rivero, Tyler Tio, and RJ Nelle provided support, but the team could not match Titan’s repeated surges down the stretch.
As the playoff picture tightens, Titan Ultra now stands at the edge of survival, aware that its fate may hinge not only on its final game against Ginebra but also on how the rest of the standings shake out. For now, the Giant Risers are still standing—and still believing.