PBA’s hottest team

Believe it or not, the PBA’s hottest team at the moment is a so-called “independent,” meaning unattached to either the San Miguel or MVP groups. Phoenix has raced to a 6-1 record, brandishing a five-game win streak and with four games to go in its elims schedule, is in strong contention for a top four quarterfinals berth in the Commissioner’s Cup.

Since joining the PBA in the 2015-16 Commissioner’s Cup, Phoenix has advanced to 11 playoffs in 17 conferences, making it to the semis twice. The closest the Super LPG Fuel Masters got to the finals was when the team lost to TNT, 3-2, in the 2020 Philippine Cup best-of-five semis.

Phoenix’ remaining assignments are against NorthPort today, San Miguel Beer on Christmas Day, Meralco on Jan. 10 and TNT on Jan. 14. The top four placers at the end of the elims gain a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarters. So Phoenix coach Jamike Jarin isn’t just aiming for a playoff ticket but also a top four finish to secure a double chance edge. Phoenix is one of three teams with only a single loss. The others are Magnolia (7-1) and Meralco (6-1). The standings are tight so every game counts.

Jarin said the secret to Phoenix’ success so far is working together. “Our team is doing well because from top management to the utilities, everyone is working selflessly,” he said. “J3 (Johnathan Williams) is showing the way as he leads us in points, rebounds and assists. He’s always on time for practice and does extra work afterwards. He gives insights to all of us and shares his experiences. The veterans and rookies are blending really well.”

Williams is averaging 26 points, 15.4 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 43.6 minutes, shooting 55.3 percent from the field. His only flaw is poor free throw shooting. He’s hitting at a lower clip, 54.8 percent, from the line than the floor, a rare oddity. The only department where Phoenix is No. 1 in the league is blocked shots at four a game. The Fuel Masters are No. 8 in rebounding, No. 10 in assists, No. 11 in fastbreak points and last in free throw percentage. The stats don’t show why they’re winning and the only explanation is teamwork isn’t reflected in the way the team battles down to the last second.