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TNT defends strong in final minutes to claim Game 1 of semifinals
The TNT Tropang Giga showcased their strong defense with crucial stops in the final moments to secure an 88-84 win over Rain or Shine in Game 1 of their PBA Commissioner’s Cup best-of-seven semifinal series on Wednesday night, February 26, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Despite being ahead by just three points with 1:59 left in the game, TNT shut down Rain or Shine's offense. The Tropang Giga capitalized on the Elasto Painters’ mistakes, forcing four turnovers, including a crucial steal by RR Pogoy off an inbound pass from Andrei Caracut with just three seconds remaining after a timeout.
Elasto Painters head coach Yeng Guiao designed a play for a potential game-tying four-point shot, but the attempt was spoiled by a bad pass.
While RoS struggled in the final moments, TNT’s shooting, especially from beyond the arc, was on point. They hit 14-of-34 three-pointers, with Jayson Castro and Calvin Oftana leading the charge. Castro scored six three-pointers, missing only one, while Oftana also nailed six.
PHOTO COURTESY: PBA
Castro finished with 24 points, four steals, and three assists, while Hollis-Jefferson contributed 23 markers despite a rough shooting night. He also grabbed 13 rebounds, handed out five assists, and blocked four shots.
Oftana, who had just joined TNT after playing for Gilas Pilipinas in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, contributed 22 points, including six three-pointers.
TNT head coach Chot Reyes praised the team’s performance, noting that RHJ struggled with his shooting, so others had to step up.
“Rondae shot really poorly, he didn’t even hit 30 percent of his field goals and it was important that other guys stepped up. They (Rain or Shine) did a good job defending Rondae and when that happens we have to look for counters,” Reyes said.
"Jayson and Calvin were the ones who provided that firepower coming off the bench," he added.
Rain or Shine's Thompson led his team with 29 markers and 16 rebounds, though he committed seven turnovers, including one at a crucial moment. Adrian Nocum also posted a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds.
The two teams will meet again for Game 2 on Friday, February 28, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
The Scores:
TNT 88 – Castro 24, Hollis-Jefferson 23, Oftana 22, Pogoy 9, Nambatac 4, Aurin 2, Erram 2, Williams 2, Khobuntin 0, Heruela 0, Galinato 0
RAIN OR SHINE 84 – Thompson 29, Nocum 18, Datu 9, Santillan 6, Clarito 6, Mamuyac 4, Caracut 3, Tiongson 3, Lemetti 3, Asistio 3, Norwood 0
Quarter Scores: 22-28, 51-47, 74-70, 88-84.
