TNT survives Brgy. Ginebra late fightback, takes Finals opener

TNT seized control in the final minutes of the opening quarter and maintained their dominance, securing a 95-89 victory over a sluggish Barangay Ginebra team in the first game of their PBA Commissioner’s Cup title showdown at the MOA Arena in Pasay City on Friday night.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson showcased his all-around prowess, leading the charge as the TNT sharpshooters found their rhythm, delivering a collaborative effort that propelled them to a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.

What many anticipated to be a fierce showdown quickly turned into a one-sided affair, with RHJ wreaking havoc on the court, nearly achieving a triple-double with an impressive stat line of 34 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists. The Tropang Giga’s long-range artillery was relentless, hitting 14-of-37 from beyond the arc, while the Gin Kings struggled with a lackluster 7-of-28 performance.

RR Pogoy was particularly lethal, draining five three-pointers, while Calvin Oftana, Kelly Williams, Rey Nambatac, and Glenn Khobuntin each added two in a torrid shooting display that more than compensated for the absence of their star playmaker, Jayson Castro.

Fueled by an early barrage of three-pointers, TNT took off with a strong lead and showcased poise and resilience, sailing toward a winning start in their quest for back-to-back titles in PBA Season 49.

However, head coach Chot Reyes isn’t about to rest on his laurels after this relatively straightforward Game One victory, bracing for a fierce Ginebra resurgence in Game Two on Sunday at the same Pasay City venue.

Pogoy contributed 15 points, while Oftana and Nambatac each chipped in 10, and Williams and Khobuntin added eight apiece, providing solid support to RHJ, who faced off against Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee, who led his squad with 28 points and 15 rebounds.

Scottie Thompson also made his mark with 17 points, and RJ Abarrientos contributed 13, as two additional Ginebra players finished in double figures.

The Gin Kings initially won the early skirmishes, establishing control in the opening minutes before the Tropang Giga found their stride, surging ahead 29-18 by the end of the first quarter.

From that point on, RHJ and his teammates executed their game plan effectively, keeping the Gin Kings at arm’s length and sealing the win.