No Illusions of an Easy Ride
After sweeping the season’s two import-reinforced tournaments, the TNT Tropang Giga know better than to expect an easy path toward a historic Grand Slam. With the absence of key players and the weight of expectations on their shoulders, TNT faces a season where every game is a test of resilience, depth, and heart.
The team’s journey took a shaky turn early, with a tough 74-91 loss to the NLEX Road Warriors in their opening game of the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup. Despite their setbacks, the Tropang Giga remain determined to prove their critics wrong and show they can win championships even without their former stars.
A Shaky Start Without Rondae Hollis-Jefferson
The loss of Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (RHJ) was bound to have a significant impact on TNT. The former NBA player had been instrumental in their past successes, often carrying the team through crucial stretches with his scoring, defense, and leadership.
Without RHJ, TNT looked out of sync against NLEX, struggling to find rhythm on both ends of the floor. Their offense stagnated, and defensive lapses allowed NLEX to build — and maintain — a comfortable lead. The 17-point defeat served as a stark reminder that without their import superstar, the Tropang Giga would have to work even harder to stay competitive.
Still, TNT management refuses to wallow in excuses. Team manager Jojo Lastimosa addressed the critics head-on:
“People are saying that the only reason we’re winning is because of Rondae. Yes, that’s true to an extent, but that talk has to stop. These guys are still capable of winning without Rondae,” Lastimosa said confidently.
He added that the players themselves must rally together and take ownership of their campaign:
“They need to come together and say, ‘Hey, we have to show we can win without Rondae.’ This is their biggest opportunity to prove it.”
Internal Motivation: A Team With Something to Prove
The absence of RHJ has become a rallying cry for the Tropang Giga. Rather than succumbing to the pressure, they are using it as motivation. Lastimosa’s challenge to the team is clear: Prove your worth without depending on a superstar.
TNT is still packed with capable talents. Veterans like RR Pogoy, Poy Erram, Kelly Williams, and up-and-comers like Calvin Oftana have shown flashes of brilliance in the past. It is now up to them to elevate their games collectively and fill the void left by Hollis-Jefferson’s departure.
Moreover, the leadership void isn’t just technical—it’s emotional. RHJ had provided not only skills but also intangibles like morale-boosting energy and calming presence under pressure. Replacing those elements will require more than just statistics; it will demand toughness, chemistry, and collective responsibility.
Another Major Setback: Losing Jayson Castro
As if losing RHJ wasn’t enough, TNT received another devastating blow when veteran point guard Jayson Castro sustained a season-ending knee injury during the Commissioner’s Cup semifinals.
Castro, fondly nicknamed “The Blur” for his speed and playmaking abilities, had long been TNT’s engine on the court. His veteran leadership, clutch performances, and calming presence will be sorely missed, particularly in tight endgame situations.
Without Castro, the Tropang Giga must now also find ways to stabilize their offense, particularly in the clutch, where decision-making and composure are critical. Younger players will need to step up and fill roles they may not yet be fully comfortable with.
Next Challenge: Facing the Converge FiberXers
TNT’s road doesn’t get any easier. In their second outing, they are set to face the Converge FiberXers at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo—a team that could pose significant problems for a still-reeling Tropang Giga.
Converge comes into the matchup with a 2-2 record, having defeated Phoenix (92-83) and Blackwater (111-80), while falling narrowly to Meralco (89-91) and Magnolia (71-83). They have proven that they can compete with the league’s elite when their roster is firing on all cylinders.
With a solid lineup across all positions, Converge presents a well-rounded challenge. Justin Arana and Justine Baltazar will be tough assignments for TNT big men Poy Erram and Kelly Williams, while Converge’s backcourt trio of Alec Stockton, Jordan Heading, and Schonny Winston promises to test TNT’s perimeter defenders like Calvin Oftana, RR Pogoy, and Rey Nambatac.
In short, TNT can expect a fierce, physical battle—exactly the kind of environment where missing veterans like RHJ and Castro will be most painfully felt.
No Pressure, Just Play: Mindset Over Grand Slam Dreams
While fans and pundits are quick to talk about a potential Triple Crown (or Grand Slam), the Tropang Giga are consciously downplaying expectations.
Recognizing the immense pressure that comes with chasing history, the team has decided to focus on the present rather than obsess over future accolades. By taking it one game at a time, TNT hopes to free themselves from the anxiety that often accompanies lofty goals.
This shift in mindset could prove crucial in allowing younger players to grow and veterans to stay loose rather than tightening up under pressure. The Grand Slam remains a dream, but for now, the focus is clear: compete, improve, and prove themselves every single night.
Key Players to Watch
Calvin Oftana
With the team missing key veterans, Oftana’s two-way skills and leadership potential will be under the spotlight. Known for his versatility and basketball IQ, Oftana could emerge as TNT’s new go-to guy in crunch time.
RR Pogoy
A known scorer and defender, Pogoy will be tasked with taking on more offensive responsibilities. His ability to generate points consistently will be vital for TNT to stay competitive.
Poy Erram
In the absence of a dominant import, Erram’s toughness in the paint becomes even more important. His rebounding and rim protection will be crucial against teams like Converge that boast strong frontcourt players.
Rey Nambatac
The acquisition of Rey Nambatac could prove timely. A fearless guard with the ability to score and create, Nambatac might just be the spark TNT needs off the bench or in spot starts.
A Season of Tests and Triumphs?
The 2025 Philippine Cup is shaping up to be a season of truth for TNT Tropang Giga.
Without Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Jayson Castro, they have lost key pillars of their recent dominance. But within that loss lies an opportunity—an opportunity to forge a new identity, cultivate internal leadership, and prove that their success runs deeper than just individual brilliance.
It won’t be easy. Every game will be a battle. Opponents smell blood in the water. But for a proud franchise like TNT, these kinds of challenges are exactly what can lead to even greater triumphs down the line.
Whether they achieve the Grand Slam or fall short, this much is certain: the journey will be one to watch—and for the Tropang Giga players, it is a journey that could define their careers.