TNT Tropang Giga Aims to Extend Historic PBA Run as San Miguel Eyes Redemption in Game 6
A Historic Milestone and a Gritty Mission
The TNT Tropang Giga are on the cusp of making history as they head into Game 6 of the PBA Philippine Cup Finals, scheduled this Friday at the PhilSports Arena. The game marks TNT’s 75th outing in PBA Season 49, tying the record once set by Alaska Milk. More than a statistical milestone, this moment underscores the tremendous endurance and resilience shown by coach Chot Reyes and his squad throughout a grueling campaign.
Reyes, fully aware of the emotional and physical toll the season has taken on his players, is urging them to end it on a high note. “We’re in the final week of a long, long season. Let’s make it the best week,” he told his team—words meant to spark a last surge of belief and determination.
TNT’s Fighting Spirit and Injury Woes
Despite being bruised, battle-worn, and short-handed, TNT continues to fight valiantly. In Game 5, with only nine healthy players available—including the absence of key big man Poy Erram due to a meniscus injury—TNT stunned San Miguel with an 86-78 victory, breathing life back into their championship dreams. It was a gritty, defensive battle, where the Tropang Giga showed heart and hustle.
Reyes highlighted his team’s relentless resolve: “I saw a lot of fight and an unwillingness to give up,” he said. “I told them to fight as hard as we can.”
Whether Erram can return for Game 6 remains uncertain, but the team has embraced a “next man up” mentality all season. Even without key players like Jayson Castro and Rey Nambatac, TNT has consistently found ways to compete.
San Miguel Beer’s Setback and Response
On the other side, San Miguel Beer, one win away from capturing the title, failed to close out the series in Game 5. Veteran guard Chris Ross, however, remains unfazed by the missed opportunity, noting that his team still holds a 3-2 series advantage with two chances left to secure the crown.
“It’s a series, and they’re a championship team,” Ross said in respect to TNT’s Game 5 stand. “We’ll put our best foot forward, make some adjustments, and come out ready.”
San Miguel struggled offensively in Game 5, shooting just 32% from the field. The team was also outperformed in key areas: rebounds (49-48), assists (19-11), second-chance points (20-12), and even points in the paint (36-34). Ross candidly admitted, “They played a good game and we didn’t. They were doing what they did, and we didn’t do what we do.”
Looking Ahead to Game 6
Both teams enter Game 6 with distinct narratives. TNT is chasing not only a Game 7 but also the fulfillment of a resilient underdog storyline. San Miguel, a dynastic force in the league, seeks redemption and the closure of what’s been a mostly dominant series.
For Ross and company, the mission is clear: regain their rhythm, bring back their trademark intensity, and finish the job. “After a loss, we find ways to bounce back—and Friday will be no different,” Ross emphasized.
Game 6 promises high stakes, emotion, and a battle of willpower between a TNT squad refusing to fade quietly and a San Miguel team determined not to let its championship dream slip away.