Topex Robinson saw 'vintage' RR Garcia in Phoenix's knockout win vs NorthPort

RR Garcia made significant contributions in the Phoenix Super LPG Fuelmasters' 101-98 win over the NorthPort Batang Pier in Sunday's knockout game for the eighth spot of the PBA Governors' Cup playoffs.

Garcia tallied a total of 19 points and for Phoenix head coach Topex Robinson, the veteran guard's performance was a glimpse of his 'vintage' self.

"RR has been reliable for us," Robinson said in a post-game conference. "The opportunity for him to rise came to the occasion and he just took advantage of it. He really didn't just give up. Everybody just gave him an opportunity to score also."

But beyond Garcia, Robinson also credited his players who did not give up despite struggling early in the game.

"Credits go to the players. The guys just didn't give up. We were struggling the whole game, we just made a lot of stops in the fourth quarter. It's really [on] them," Robinson said, citing that their opponents also gave them a run for their money.

Phoenix will face the league-leading Magnolia Hotshots Pambansang Manok for the quarterfinals on Friday, with the Hotshots holding the twice-to-beat bonus. Despite the disadvantage, Robinson said they are just happy to be in their place.

"We respect Magnolia a lot but we just have to focus on the things we have control of and that's how we're gonna execute," he added.

—JMB, GMA News