San Miguel def Phoenix, 139-127 [PBA S49 Govs’ Cup | Sep. 13, 2024]

Jordan Adams seemed determined to solidify his position as the man for the job.

With an impressive comeback, Adams announced his return in spectacular fashion, unleashing a 49-point barrage that propelled San Miguel to a thrilling 139-127 victory over Phoenix in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday, Sept. 13.

After spending the previous game on the sidelines while giving way to his anticipated replacement, Sheldon Mac, Adams stormed the court with ferocity. The Beermen overcame the tenacious Fuel Masters, improving their record to 5-2 in the process.

Adams showcased his scoring prowess, going a perfect two-for-two from the four-point range and sinking four three-pointers, along with securing 11 rebounds and two steals. This performance served as a crucial warm-up ahead of San Miguel’s highly anticipated rematch against Barangay Ginebra on Sunday, Sept. 15.

Supporting Adams, CJ Perez contributed a solid 23 points, while June Mar Fajardo delivered a double-double performance with 22 points and 11 rebounds. The eight-time Most Valuable Player achieved an impressive 10-of-10 shooting performance from the field—a remarkable feat accomplished only seven times in league history.

Meanwhile, the history-seeking Marcio Lassiter added five three-pointers to amass 16 points, moving just three triples away from surpassing Jimmy Alapag as the all-time leader in three-point shooting.

On Phoenix’s side, import Brandone Francis valiantly attempted to answer Adams’ scoring onslaught, racking up 48 points. However, it proved insufficient against the Beermen’s overwhelming firepower.

This matchup marked the highest-scoring contest in the last two seasons, surpassing the previous record of 142-125 set between NLEX and Terrafirma in the 2023 Governors’ Cup.

Notably, the Fuel Masters held their ground early, trailing 85-76, before the Beermen utilized the combined efforts of Adams, Perez, and Fajardo to extend their lead to as much as 20 points at 108-88.

Jason Perkins added 18 points in a valiant but ultimately futile effort, as Phoenix fell to 0-7 for the season.