RR Pogoy leads TNT Tropang 5G past Rain or Shine in Game 1

Roger Ray Pogoy poured in 28 points to lead the TNT Tropang 5G past the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 98-91, in Game 1 of their Semi-Finals series on Wednesday, June 25, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Aside from his 28 markers, the sharpshooting guard also grabbed two rebounds and dished out four assists while playing a game-high 36 minutes to anchor TNT’s victory.

John Paul Erram was also a key contributor, posting a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. He was followed by Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, who also tallied a double-double with 13 points and 10 boards, and Simon Enciso, who chipped in 12 points on 3-of-4 shooting from beyond the arc. Enciso also added five rebounds and five assists. All three came off the bench, helping TNT gain a 41-30 advantage in bench scoring.

Calvin Oftana contributed another double-double performance with 12 points and 10 rebounds, making up for his game-high seven turnovers. Jordan Heading also finished in double digits with 10 points and three rebounds.

TNT didn’t have an easy time securing the win, as the game was close from the outset. The first quarter ended in a 25-all tie, and both teams remained deadlocked at 43 by halftime.

The Tropang 5G finally gained a slight edge in the third quarter, outscoring Rain or Shine 22-17, and sealed the win with a 35-33 finish in the fourth to secure the seven-point triumph.

On the other end, five Rain or Shine players scored in double figures, with Andrei Caracut leading the way with 16 points. He was followed by Jhonard Clarito (14), Adrian Nocum (13), Cealan Tiongson (12), and Gabe Norwood (12). However, their collective effort fell short.

It was a close, physical, and emotional battle until the final moments, with Elasto Painters head coach Yeng Guiao ejected in the closing seconds of the game.

Rain or Shine will look to even the series in Game 2, scheduled for Friday, June 27, at 7:30 PM at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.