by Jonas Terrado
Justin Chua scored a go-ahead layup to give Phoenix Pulse a 78-76 win over Alaska and snap a three-game skid in the PBA Commissioner's Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Chua converted off Alex Mallari’s pass with 9.8 seconds left that gave the Fuel Masters their first victory since controversial star Calvin Abueva was suspended indefinitely by the PBA Commissioner’s Office.
Justin Chua of Phoenix Pulse tries to get a shot up against Alaska defenders (PBA Images)
It also was a fitting return for coach Louie Alas, who served a two-game suspension for his part in an altercation against TNT KaTropa and for making comments detrimental to the league.
Phoenix improved to 2-3 for a share of sixth place with defending champion Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.
Import Richard Howell had 24 points and 28 rebounds while Mallari added 15 points despite an injured right hand.
Chris Banchero scored 16 points but Alaska dropped to a 4-3 record.
Banchero's layup off Vic Manuel’s baseball pass to even the count at 76-all with 33.2 ticks remaining.
Justin Chua of Phoenix Pulse tries to get a shot up against Alaska defenders (PBA Images)
It also was a fitting return for coach Louie Alas, who served a two-game suspension for his part in an altercation against TNT KaTropa and for making comments detrimental to the league.
Phoenix improved to 2-3 for a share of sixth place with defending champion Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.
Import Richard Howell had 24 points and 28 rebounds while Mallari added 15 points despite an injured right hand.
Chris Banchero scored 16 points but Alaska dropped to a 4-3 record.
Banchero's layup off Vic Manuel’s baseball pass to even the count at 76-all with 33.2 ticks remaining.