TNT blows out Brgy. Ginebra in Game 5, takes 3-2 Finals series lead

When the going gets tough, the tough get going.

After squandering a 2-0 series lead, TNT regrouped and delivered a commanding performance against Barangay Ginebra, clinching a decisive 99-72 victory in Game 5 of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, Nov. 6.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson showcased yet another double-double, further solidifying his impact on the game. (PBA Images)

The Tropang Giga returned to their winning formula—a tenacious and suffocating defensive strategy—holding the Kings to their lowest point total in the finals and seizing a 3-2 lead in this best-of-seven showdown.

In stark contrast to their previous two outings, TNT’s defense was relentless, allowing Ginebra to score a mere 13 points in the second quarter and just 15 in the third, pushing the score to 79-48 as the teams headed into the final frame.

Highlighting the defensive prowess of head coach Chot Reyes’ squad was their extraordinary work against Ginebra’s import, Justin Brownlee, who was limited to a single-digit scoring output for the first time in his eight-year career in the league.

Brownlee managed only eight points on a dismal 3-of-13 shooting, with most of his absence in the fourth quarter coinciding with TNT’s insurmountable lead.

His performance starkly contrasted with that of his counterpart, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who contributed 16 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists.

In addition to Hollis-Jefferson’s steady production, he received solid support from his teammates, with RR Pogoy and Calvin Oftana each adding 16 and 15 points, respectively.

In a pivotal role, Kelly Williams, making his first start of the series, ignited the team with 11 points, while Jayson Castro orchestrated the offense beautifully with 10 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists.

Although TNT began with a strong start, the team struggled to distance themselves initially, as Ginebra stayed competitive, trailing 26-20 at the end of the first quarter.

However, the Tropang Giga shifted into high gear in the second frame, unleashing a scorching 21-5 run that transformed a modest six-point lead into a commanding 47-25 advantage.

Ginebra attempted to mount a comeback with five consecutive points that energized their fans early in the third quarter, but TNT remained poised, maintaining their significant lead until the final buzzer.