Phoenix Gasoline Masters bench have a good time after RJ Jazul’s basket throughout a PBA Philippine Cup recreation. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines — Whereas Phoenix earned a win within the PBA Philippine Cup on Wednesday night time on the expense of NorthPort, it wasn’t all celebration after the ultimate buzzer.

The Gasoline Masters defeated the Batang Pier, 118-107, in a recreation devoted to protect JC Cullar, who misplaced his father only a day earlier.

READ: PBA: Phoenix beats debuting Calvin Abueva, NorthPort

“His dad handed away yesterday so let’s simply pray for the Cullar household. He [even] performed tonight and we dedicate the sport to him, to his household, and to the soul of his father,” mentioned an emotional coach Jamike Jarin.

“I informed him to go and get the quickest flight to be along with his household and he mentioned he has an obligation to his household right here, to his Phoenix household.”

Regardless of the non-public tragedy, Cullar suited up and contributed 4 factors and 4 assists. His demeanor gave no trace of the burden he carried.

Jarin revealed that the School of St. Benilde product selected to play first, saying, “He mentioned, ‘My dad would like to see me play.’ So he received the earliest flight after our recreation. I simply salute him for that. I don’t know, if I used to be in his place, I wouldn’t even be capable to transfer.”

Jason Perkins, who led Phoenix with 26 factors to enhance to 3-7, was moved by Cullar’s power and resolve.

“It’s actually arduous to play after that occurs with your loved ones. He has a flight at 2 a.m., however he nonetheless had the power to return out, play, and he performed properly tonight,” mentioned Perkins. “JC hasn’t been something however constructive and powerful and I believe that actually impressed and motivated us right now.”

“Yesterday in follow, you wouldn’t even be capable to inform. He was in there getting pictures up earlier than and after. He stayed constructive, and he works arduous,” Perkins added. added.