Phoenix dedicates win to JC Cullar after father’s loss of life

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

The Gas 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,” stated an emotional coach Jamike Jarin.

“I instructed him to go and get the quickest flight to be along with his household and he stated 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 Faculty of St. Benilde product selected to play first, saying, “He stated, ‘My dad would like to see me play.’ So he obtained 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 of transfer.”

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

“It’s actually exhausting to play after that occurs with your loved ones. He has a flight at 2 a.m., however he nonetheless had the energy to return out, play, and he performed effectively tonight,” stated Perkins. “JC hasn’t been something however optimistic and robust and I feel that basically impressed and motivated us in the present day.”

“Yesterday in apply, you wouldn’t even be capable of inform. He was in there getting pictures up earlier than and after. He stayed optimistic, and he works exhausting,” Perkins added. added.