PBA: Tenorio, Magnolia aim to finally get one vs Charles Tiu, Phoenix

Magnolia coach LA Tenorio looks on during a game against Meralco in the PBA Governors’ Cup at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.–PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—After a slow start, Magnolia is gaining momentum in the PBA Governors’ Cup.

The Hotshots, however, will be challenged in their next assignment against a Phoenix team that they have yet to figure out this season.

“We want to win. Definitely, we’ll prepare against Phoenix. We haven’t won against them yet. I think that’s enough motivation for us heading into this game,” said coach LA Tenorio after steering his squad to a 105-88 win over Meralco on Friday for its third win in four outings after a 0-2 start.

“It’s not going to be easy. Phoenix is now in good hands with coach Charles (Tiu); players are really responding well, and they have a good import so we’ll see.”

Tenorio’s Hotshots are 0-2 against the Fuel Masters since Charles Tiu was appointed as their new coach in January 2026.

In fact, Tiu’s coaching debut with Phoenix was a 101-98 victory over Tenorio and Magnolia last March in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

In their most recent meeting, the Fuel Masters beat the Hotshots, 98-86, last month in both squads’ conference debut behind BJ Johnson’s 34 points, 14 rebounds, four assists and three steals.

Their game on Wednesday at Ynares Center in Antipolo will also have big implications in Group B standings.

A win by Phoenix will put itself on top of the group, breaking a tie with Rain or Shine, while a Magnolia victory ties the Hotshots with the Fuel Masters in second.