THE TNT Tropang Giga delivered a defensive masterclass, limiting the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters to just 11 points in the first six minutes of the second half, paving the way for a commanding 108-91 victory in Game 2 of their 49th PBA Governors’ Cup semifinal clash on Friday night at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
The Tropang Giga’s strong defensive showing helped secure their second consecutive win, giving them a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series.
Key contributions came from Calvin Oftana and Rey Nambatac, who, alongside Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, hit crucial baskets to maintain TNT’s momentum.
“Nothing special in particular,” said TNT coach Chot Reyes, “We just made it a point to come out of the half with renewed determination.”
Hollis-Jefferson led the way with 23 points, including a layup just before halftime that gave TNT a slim 47-44 edge.
Oftana contributed 18 points, while Nambatac added 17. The duo combined for 24 of TNT’s 38 points in the third quarter, extending their lead to 77-60 with just over three minutes left in the period.
TNT’s defense continued to stifle the Elasto Painters, holding them to just 10 points in the second half of the third quarter. This allowed the Tropang Giga to stretch their lead to 85-65, capped by a Hollis-Jefferson dunk in the final seconds of the period.
