Williams Returns as Phoenix Targets TNT Upset

Phoenix is turning to a familiar weapon in its bid to topple TNT and make a strong push for the playoffs in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Season 50 Commissioner's Cup on Friday.

With James Dickey III sidelined, the Fuel Masters have recalled Johnathan Williams, aiming to boost their chances as they enter the final three games of the elimination round. Currently, Coach Charles Tiu and his squad sit sixth with a 5-4 record, trailing Tropang 5G, who occupy fourth at 6-3.

Phoenix’s position comes after a heavy 130-103 loss to Converge last Sunday, a game in which Dickey was out due to an ankle injury. Now, the Fuel Masters are looking to shake up the standings, starting against the defending conference champions at 5:15 p.m., opening the league’s twin-bill Labor Day special.

Williams brings renewed confidence to the squad. He led Phoenix to just its third semifinal appearance during the 2023-24 Commissioner's Cup and earned Best Import honors, averaging 24.5 points, 16.4 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 1.6 blocks over 17 games. The Fuel Masters are hoping he can replicate that impact in his second PBA stint.

However, the challenge is steep. TNT, looking to secure a Top Four finish, rebounded from a loss to Mikey Williams with a 119-112 victory over Macau. Phoenix must also contend with Bol Bol, the 7-foot-3 center who has dominated this midseason tournament. TNT enters as a -7.5 point favorite, according to sportsbook.

Later, the 7:30 p.m. main event features Barangay Ginebra against Meralco in a heated rivalry clash. The Kings are riding a five-game winning streak, a run that has solidified their Top Four position and briefly tied them with NLEX at second place before the Road Warriors edged ahead. Ginebra currently holds solo third with a 7-2 record.

Coach Tim Cone’s team has turned things around after a shaky start, including a 91-89 Manila Clasico victory over Magnolia that sparked their current streak. A win against Meralco would strengthen their Top Four positioning and provide the win-once advantage in the opening playoff round.

Meralco, meanwhile, is fighting to stay in contention after dropping its last two games to NLEX and San Miguel, losing leads in both matchups. The Bolts now sit fifth at 5-3, making the remaining four games crucial to return to the Top Four conversation. Odds favor Ginebra narrowly at -1.5 points, with an over/under of 206.0, according to sportsbook.