TNT KaTropa is thinking about a return trip to the finals as it looks to close out its best-of-five semifinal showdown against Barangay Ginebra in the resumption of the 2017 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup.
Leading 2-0, the Tropang Texters can finish of the Gin Kings and book the first ticket to the finals in Game 3 of their series today at 7 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
An unlikely hero rose to the occasion to put TNT KaTropa in the advantageous position that it is in now.
Anthony Semerad, who is primarily tasked to contain Ginebra import Justin Brownlee, suddenly had an outburst in Game 2, scoring 12 of his 14 points, including the go-ahead triple with over a minute left, in the payoff period to save his squad.
With that, TNT KaTropa was able to pull off a 107-103 Game 2 triumph over Ginebra Tuesday night to tighten its grip on the series further.
With opportunity at hand, Texters’ coach Nash Racela is looking to capitalize on this and end it the soonest, knowing Ginebra’s capabilities of climbing back.
“We should look to end it. Or else, we’ll put ourselves in more danger. It will be tough, but I’m hoping we can get one more,” said Racela.
Ginebra was actually leading for most part of Game 2. Still, it was unable to hold on.
Actually, the Gin Kings seemed prime to equalize down the stretch before Semerad’s heroics happened.
As of press time, San Miguel and Star are continuing their intense semis series of their own with their Game 3 battle.
The victor of that one will get an important 2-1 series lead and likewise move a step closer to the finals.