RR Garcia was the unlikely spark Phoenix Super LPG needed in its 2021-22 PBA Governors’ Cup do-or-die affair with NorthPort on Sunday night.
The veteran point guard turned in a conference-high 19 points, 16 of which he produced in the second half as he helped the Fuel Masters to a thrilling 101-98 come-from-behind victory to complete the quarterfinal picture.
It was actually his best performance in a while, or since scoring 18 in a 78-77 win over Rain or Shine in the 2021 Philippine Cup last September 21.
“RR has been reliable for us,” lauded coach Topex Robinson.
“The opportunity for him to rise to the occasion came, and he just took advantage of it.”
Garcia said that there was a conscious effort on his part to deliver the best he could, as he felt that he had been a non-factor for games now.
Prior to his scoring outburst, the 32-year-old was just averaging 3.6 points in 14 minutes. He had never scored in double figures, either. The most he had was nine in a 110-90 win over Blackwater last December 11 in Pasig.
“Ilang games na wala akong naaambag sa team, kaya ‘pag ipinasok ako ni Coach, talagang ready ako lagi,” said the eight-year pro.
That, indeed, was a way to contribute. Garcia shot 63-percent from the field, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc. He also chalked up three rebounds, two assists, and a steal without a turnover in nearly 29 minutes.
“Talagang binigay namin ‘yung best namin, lalo na ako. Nag-step up, off the bench ako, kaya always ready ako ‘pag pinasok ako ni Coach,” he said.
Such a performance from the former UAAP MVP came at a time when Matthew Wright was far from his usual self practically the entire game.
But their main man made sure that he’ll show up in the endgame, making the big three-point play with 29.3 seconds left to give Phoenix the 100-98 lead. Garcia went on to settle the final count with a split from the line.
Wright finished with 11 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. And for Garcia, it is important for the rest of the Fuel Masters to give their leader the support he needs, just like what he had provided in the all-important match.
“Sa amin naman kasi, hindi namin kailangan asahan lagi si Matt kasi tao lang din naman siya,” said the Far Eastern University product.
“Hindi niya kaya mag-isa lang, kaya kailangan din ng tulong ng bawat teammate sa kanya.”
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