Knights winless no more

MANILA, Philippines — Unsuccessful all-tournament long and further handicapped by a depleted crew, guest team Macau defied the odds and finally unlocked the door to victory.

The Black Knights caught fire from deep to lay the foundation to their 119-107 breakthrough win over Titan Ultra in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup last night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Led by Jenning Leung’s fiery shooting, Macau dropped 19 triples and one four-ball to spell the difference in this spirited duel between two squads badly in need of a W to stay in the playoffs hunt.

Leung, who grew up in Laguna and played high-school ball for Brent, rifled in seven shots from three and converted his lone attempt from the extended four-point arc en route to a PBA-high 32 points.

Damien Chongqui (23 with nine assists), Phoenix Shackelford (18 spiked by four triples plus 14 boards), import Tony Mitchell (18-14), Jiaoshou Li (11 highlighted by three three-pointers) and Ramon Cao (10 marked by two triples) were also on target as Macau cracked the win column after losing their first seven outings since their debut last March 11.

The Giant Risers fell to their third straight loss for 2-6.

“It’s just pride. Like we’re knocking on the door for a couple of wins, we have a lot of pride and we don’t want to keep losing,” said Leung.

Later, Phoenix clawed back from 18 down to stop the undefeated run of leader Rain or Shine, 87-83.

The Fuel Masters leaned on a strong second half to roll to 5-3.