Before securing the 49th PBA Commissioner’s Cup championship, TNT Tropang Giga drew inspiration from an uplifting message delivered by head coach Chot Reyes.
Quoting scripture, Reyes urged his players to compete with all their heart, strength, and understanding.
He also emphasized the importance of selflessness, urging them to play with love for one another. His words struck a chord with the squad, fueling a gritty performance that led to an 87-83 overtime victory against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Friday night at the Araneta Coliseum.
“The players put in a hell of an effort. We are thankful to be in this position, and we are thankful to have pulled off this victory,” said Reyes.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson led the charge with 25 points, while Finals MVP Rey Nambatac delivered 22 crucial points. Calvin Oftana added 10, including a decisive drive with 8.3 seconds remaining that sealed the championship for Tropang Giga.
Despite being outmatched in depth and star power, Reyes praised his team’s relentless spirit. “As you can see, we don’t really have the best talent. We don’t have the deepest bench. But there’s something about our players—they just refuse to quit,” he said.
The Gin Kings had one last chance to force a miracle finish, but Hollis-Jefferson’s defensive stop on Justin Brownlee ensured TNT’s victory as time expired. Brownlee finished with 28 points for Ginebra in a valiant effort.
With this win, TNT Tropang Giga clinched their third Commissioner’s Cup title, cementing their place as one of the league’s fiercest competitors.