TNT captures second consecutive victory over Blackwater

The TNT Tropang Giga notched their back-to-back wins after outlasting Blackwater as they cruised to a 109-93 victory in the 49th Season of PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The Tropang Giga improved their record to 2-2 after opening the conference with two consecutive losses. 

Coach Chot Reyes claimed during the postgame interview that they intended to block George King from the long arc. Consequently, the Blackwater import only attempted that range once out of six.

"During the last several days, we focused on how to stop George King. We all know his ability from the four-point line, so we really made it a point, we were very intentional in guarding the four-point line against George," said Reyes.

But even with that four-point shooting percentage, King was still able to pack the stat sheet with a game-high 28 points and nine rebounds.

Five Tropang Giga scored in double digits, with Rondae Hollis-Jefferson leading the pack with a team-high of 22 markers along with nine boards and six assists. 

Rey Nambatac spearheaded the local crew with 19 points, while Calvin Oftana and Jayson Castro registered 18 and 16 markers for the TNT, respectively. 

Blackwater fell to a 1-5 slate, just above fellow cellar-dweller Terrafirma (0-6).

TNT 109 – Hollis-Jefferson 22, Nambatac 19, Oftana 18, Castro 16, Pogoy 12, Khobuntin 10, Galinato 6, Erram 4, Razon 2, Varilla 0, Aurin 0, Exciminiano 0.

BLACKWATER 93 – King 28, Ilagan 19, Chua 9, Kwekuteye 9, David 8, Suerte 5, Escoto 4, Ponferrada 3, Montalbo 2, Casio 2, COrteza 2, Guinro 1, Ayonayon 1, Jopia 0, Hill 0.

Quarter Scores:  28-18, 57-48, 82-69, 109-93.