Terrafirma halts Tropang Giga’s streak, prevents winless campaign

Terrafirma staged an unlikely victory over league-leader TNT, 117-108, as they concluded their PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup campaign on Wednesday, January 22, at the Ynares Center.

Rookie Mark Nonoy showcased his finest PBA performance to date, posting a season-high 33 points, allowing the Dyip to close their campaign on a high note despite dropping their first 11 games.

"I just trusted them," said Terrafirma head coach Raymond Tiongco. “We know their strength. We made our shots earlier so we also played well, from the outside to the inside. We got the TNT off-guard. We made our shots, especially Nonoy when we ran."

Nonoy was all smiles as he was able to share the floor with one of his childhood heroes. Motivated by his encounter with Jayson Castro, the left-handed guard finished with four assists, four rebounds, and a 10-of-13 shooting percentage.

"I was inspired by Kuya Jayson because it was our first time playing against each other. Since my childhood, I've been watching him," said Nonoy, who went 5-of-6 from three. 

“He is one of the PBA players I’m inspired by. I was confident because I wanted to challenge him,” he added.

Terrafirma had a dominating 99-70 lead when Nonoy made a four-pointer to beat the third-quarter buzzer. 

He opened the fourth period with another four-pointer, giving the Dyip its largest lead at 103-72. This was a startling change of events against a TNT team that had won six straight games.

With more than three minutes left, the Tropang Giga came within striking distance at 99–112, but Nonoy saved the day once more by making a three-pointer that ended TNT's resistance.

Import Brandon Edwards backstopped Nonoy’s efforts with 19 markers, 12 boards, and six dimes, Louie Sangalang contributed 16 points and four rebounds, while Aljun Melecio supplied 10 markers. 

The majority of TNT's work was done by two-time Best Import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who finished with 41 points, 10 rebounds, four blocks, three steals, and three assists.

However, his overall effort was in vain as the Tropang Giga lost 6-3, dropping from first place to a tie for fifth place with Rain or Shine.

Calvin Oftana led the local crew with 17 markers, while Rey Nambatac and Castro delivered 12 and 11 points, respectively, in the loss.