A Statement Win
The TNT Tropang Giga followed up a gritty win over San Miguel Beer with a dominant 110-74 blowout of Terrafirma in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup on Friday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City. From start to finish, TNT controlled the game, showing no signs of slowing down against a Dyip squad that struggled on both ends of the floor.
Head coach Chot Reyes praised his team’s energy and consistency, especially after their close 89-84 victory against powerhouse SMB. “Our objective coming to this ballgame was just to make sure we beat Terrafirma with our effort and our energy,” said Reyes. “Matagal na naming hindi tinatalo team na ito, so we made sure it wouldn’t happen again.”
Hot Starts and Relentless Pressure
The Tropang Giga jumped out to an early lead behind their starters’ aggressive defense and efficient scoring. Calvin Oftana led the charge with 22 points in just three quarters, while Poy Erram added 19 in another efficient performance. TNT’s defensive intensity set the tone early, leading to turnovers and transition buckets that buried Terrafirma before halftime.
Coach Reyes credited his starters for setting the tone and emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum from their previous win. “We just wanted to make sure na hindi masayang ‘yung huling panalo namin,” he added.
Bench Depth Shines Bright
Even when the game was well in hand, TNT’s bench showed no signs of letting up. Calvin Payawal drilled back-to-back threes to push the lead to its highest point at 102-56, underscoring the Tropang Giga’s depth. Rey Nambatac (12 points), Kim Aurin (11), Roger Pogoy (10), and Glenn Khobuntin (9) all chipped in, highlighting the team’s balanced offensive attack.
With TNT comfortably ahead 88-52 at the end of the third quarter, Reyes wisely rested his starters in preparation for a grueling upcoming stretch. TNT faces a tough three-game schedule in just six days, starting with a matchup against Meralco on Sunday.
Terrafirma’s Struggles Continue
For Terrafirma, it was another rough outing in a season full of disappointments. The Dyip have now lost five straight, falling to a 1-5 record. Louie Sangalang tried to carry the load with 16 points and 16 rebounds, while Mark Nonoy also contributed 16 points. However, the team’s lack of offensive execution and cohesion was evident.
Terrafirma shot just 34.8% from the field (24-of-69) and committed 19 turnovers, which TNT converted into 19 points. Key contributors Stanley Pringle and Aldrech Ramos were shut down in the second half after combining for 22 first-half points, further highlighting the Dyip’s inconsistency.
Looking Ahead
TNT’s commanding win marks a clear step in the right direction as they improve to 2-3 in the standings. With growing momentum and increased contributions from their bench, the Tropang Giga are positioning themselves to climb the standings as the conference progresses.
Still, Coach Reyes is keeping his team grounded. “We have to play a lot more, tougher games,” he said, pointing to their upcoming battles that will test the team’s depth and resolve.
As the Philippine Cup heats up, TNT appears to be finding its rhythm—at just the right time.