Lucero, Alfaro lead Magnolia past Phoenix 110-104

Zav Lucero and Peter Alfaro led Magnolia to a 110-104 victory over Phoenix in the PBA Commissioner's Cup on Thursday at Philsports Arena.

Lucero contributed 25 points while Alfaro added 14, helping Magnolia improve their record to 4-6 despite Paul Lee's absence due to injury and moving them within reach of a playoff spot.

Magnolia built a 14-point lead late in the third quarter but Phoenix narrowed it down before Magnolia pulled away again with an 8-0 run early in the fourth period, sealing the win with Lucero's free throws near the end.

Coach Chito Victolero praised Alfaro and Lucero for stepping up to fill Paul Lee's void, noting that this victory ensures Magnolia has not missed the playoffs since he took over as coach before the 2016-2017 season.

Donovan Smith scored a game-high 40 points for Phoenix but it wasn't enough as they fell to 3-6 in the tournament.