PBA Import Highlights: Phoenix needs a new reinforcement!

 

The Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters have suffered a devastating setback ahead of the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup resumption in October, as stellar import BJ Johnson has officially departed the franchise to join Russian club Parma BC.

While Head Coach Charles Tiu confirmed the development, Parma BC had actually announced Johnson's acquisition back on July 6. The timing makes it clear that his explosive campaign in the PBA was always intended to be a brief stopover before making his move overseas.

A Top-5 Import Lost Losing Johnson is a huge blow for Phoenix. He wasn't just filling a roster spot; he was performing as a clear top-5 import in the entire tournament, anchoring the Fuel Masters on both ends of the floor with elite multi-category production. His eye-popping stat line speaks for itself:

• Points: 30.71 PPG

• Rebounds: 9.57 RPG

• Assists: 4.0 APG

• Steals: 3.0 SPG

• Blocks: 2.0 BPG

The Playoff Push at Risk

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The timing couldn't be more delicate for the franchise. Phoenix currently sits at 4-3 in Group B, holding a deadlocked tie with the Magnolia Hotshots for second place. Johnson’s two-way dominance was the primary engine keeping the Fuel Masters firmly in position for a favorable playoff seeding.

Phoenix now has roughly a month to search the market and recruit a replacement who can replicate even a fraction of Johnson's rim protection, perimeter defense, and high-volume scoring. With their next game scheduled for October 16 against the Meralco Bolts in Antipolo, the clock is officially ticking on the Fuel Masters front office to salvage their conference ambitions.

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