PBA GAMES : JUNE 21 TNT VS MAGNOLIA
TNT Forces Do-or-Die Showdown Against Magnolia
Comeback Victory Sets Stage for PBA Quarterfinal Decider
TNT’s Narrow Escape Keeps Grand Slam Hopes Alive
With their backs against the wall, the TNT Tropang Giga eked out a hard-fought 89–88 victory over the Magnolia Hotshots, extending their 2024 PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinal series to a sudden-death Game 2. The game, held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, was a dramatic reversal of expectations, as TNT erased a 13-point deficit in the second half and overcame Magnolia’s twice-to-beat advantage.
Coach Chot Reyes, proud of his team’s resilience, revealed that preparations for a Saturday game were already in place—even before the final buzzer. “Ang iniisip lang namin is that we’re coming back and we’re playing on Saturday,” Reyes stated, highlighting the team’s belief and determination.
Strategy and Execution: TNT’s Winning Edge
TNT’s ability to fine-tune its game plan played a crucial role in their win. Key adjustments included focusing on rebounding, defensive pressure, and balanced offensive contributions. The game’s pivotal moment came in the final 18 seconds, when Kelly Williams secured a crucial rebound, drew a foul from Will Navarro, and calmly sank the game-winning free throw.
Williams, the veteran leader at 42 years old, tallied 12 points and seven rebounds, while also playing a key role in the final minutes alongside Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, who contributed 10 points and six boards. Together, they accounted for nine of TNT’s last 11 points, solidifying their importance down the stretch.
Star Performers and Team Contributions
The Tropa’s rebounding dominance (51-40) was a significant factor. This physical advantage helped open up scoring opportunities for TNT’s key offensive weapons. Roger Pogoy exploded for 30 points, showcasing his scoring prowess, while Calvin Oftana delivered a reliable 21-point, 16-rebound double-double. Their efforts were crucial in keeping TNT’s momentum alive in the second half.
Coach Reyes praised Ganuelas-Rosser’s effort, stating, “We told Brandon just to make sure to be a presence and whatever we get out of him offensively, that’s a big bonus.” This philosophy reflects TNT’s team-first approach, where effort and hustle are valued as much as statistics.
Magnolia’s Painful Collapse and Key Takeaways
For Magnolia, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow. After building a 13-point cushion in the third quarter, the Hotshots faltered in crunch time, particularly in rebounding and defensive coverage. Their failure to secure a rebound in the final seconds ultimately cost them the game—and their advantage as the higher seed.
Despite commendable efforts from Zavier Lucero, Ian Sangalang, and Will Navarro, who combined for 38 points and 15 rebounds, the team will need to regroup quickly. Magnolia’s championship drought stretches back to the 2018 Governors’ Cup, adding pressure as they face another win-or-go-home scenario.
Do-or-Die Matchup Set for Saturday
Saturday’s deciding game promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Both teams are expected to make adjustments—TNT aiming to sustain their energy and composure, and Magnolia desperate to fix their defensive lapses and reassert control.
For TNT, the focus remains on recovery and staying locked in. “We have to recover. We have to do a good job resting the bodies,” Reyes emphasized, acknowledging the physical toll of the previous game and the short turnaround.
Magnolia, meanwhile, is expected to come out with renewed intensity and tighter defensive discipline. Neutralizing TNT’s offensive trio of Pogoy, Oftana, and Jordan Heading—as well as addressing their rebounding woes—will be crucial if the Hotshots are to advance.
The stage is set for a thrilling finale between two fierce competitors. With TNT fighting for a shot at a Grand Slam and Magnolia aiming to end years of playoff frustration, Saturday’s do-or-die clash is more than just a game—it’s a test of will, preparation, and championship mettle.