TNT Holds 2-0 Lead Amid Adversity, Rain or Shine Eyes Critical Game 3 Bounce-Back
Manila, Philippines – June 29, 2025
TNT Tropang Giga has once again shown its resilience under pressure, pulling off a gritty 113-105 overtime win against Rain or Shine in Game 2 of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals last Friday. The victory gave the Tropang Giga a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series — a win made even more impressive given the early exit of key player Roger Pogoy due to a suspected hamstring injury.
TNT Focused Despite Pogoy’s Absence
Pogoy’s injury, sustained in the opening seconds of the second quarter, could have been a major setback for TNT. Instead, the team responded with poise and grit, guided by head coach Chot Reyes’ laser-focused mindset.
“Focus on Game 3, that’s the only thing that’s within our control,” Reyes said post-game. “We have to continue. This win is big, but getting Game 3 will be even bigger.”
With Pogoy sidelined, Calvin Oftana rose to the occasion, delivering a career-defining performance with 39 points, including a crucial 8-0 run in overtime that sealed the deal for the Tropang Giga. But it wasn’t just Oftana—TNT leaned on contributions from Jordan Heading, Kelly Williams, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, Kim Aurin, Mike Nieto, and Almond Vosotros to keep the momentum alive.
Rain or Shine’s Missed Opportunities
For Rain or Shine, Game 2 was a heartbreaker. Despite solving some of their rebounding woes from Game 1—winning the battle of the boards 57-53—the E-Painters faltered at the free throw line. They missed 14 attempts from the stripe, including potentially game-sealing shots before regulation expired.
“We missed 14 free throws. If we just made one before the end of regulation, that could have been the game,” lamented head coach Yeng Guiao. “In close games, you must shoot at least 80 percent from the line. You’re a professional.”
Another crucial moment came in the dying seconds of regulation when Gian Mamuyac committed a costly foul on Oftana, who was attempting a long three. Oftana calmly knocked down all three free throws, tying the game at 99-all and sending it into overtime.
“That was just a bad decision,” Guiao admitted. “But I was really happy with our effort. It was an incredible game. We just didn’t get the breaks.”
Looking Ahead to Game 3
As the series shifts to Game 3 this Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, TNT aims to build on its momentum while hoping for Pogoy’s quick recovery. Meanwhile, Rain or Shine is fighting to avoid falling into a nearly insurmountable 0-3 deficit.
Both teams are expected to bring their full intensity—TNT seeking to tighten its grip on the series, and Rain or Shine desperate for redemption and a lifeline.
With high stakes and no room for error, Game 3 promises to be a pivotal battle in this closely watched semifinal showdown.