TNT-Rain or Shine semis opener features contrasting styles

As the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup semi-finals open on Wednesday, June 25, the grand slam-seeking TNT Tropang 5G and the "gate-crashing" Rain or Shine Elasto Painters will begin their best-of-seven clash at 5:00 PM at the Mall of Asia Arena.

It will be a battle between two teams with contrasting styles. TNT prefers to limit opponents to under 100 points per game, while Rain or Shine thrives on a fast-paced game and aims to put up big numbers whenever possible.

Both teams posted identical 8-5 records after the elimination and quarterfinal rounds. They also overcame twice-to-beat disadvantages to secure their spots in the Final Four.

Despite having the same win-loss records and quarterfinal paths, their statistical profiles tell different stories.

TNT averaged 92 points, 47 rebounds, and 19 assists per game. Meanwhile, Rain or Shine posted better numbers across the board: 105 points, 50 rebounds, and 22 assists per game.

On paper, Rain or Shine appears to have the advantage with stronger averages. However, those stats can be deceiving, as TNT’s identity lies in its stifling defense, which naturally lowers both their own and their opponents' scoring.

Zooming out, the Tropang 5G seem to have more advantages beyond just the averages. They've already reached the Finals twice this season—and won both times.

TNT also boasts a roster capable of finally delivering the franchise’s first-ever grand slam. Key players like Calvin Oftana, RR Pogoy, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, and the ever-reliable Kelly Williams—who hit clutch free throws to send them to the semis—step up when it matters. This, despite the absence of two former Finals MVPs in Jayson Castro and Rey Nambatac due to injuries.

It may be a tough series for the Elasto Painters, who don’t rely on star power as much as TNT does. But their grit and collective effort have taken them this far. They're considered underdogs in this matchup, but as head coach Yeng Guiao said, they were the “gate-crashers” of the Final Four—and they might just do it again and return to the Finals for the first time since the 2012 Governor’s Cup.

Rain or Shine may not have a clear-cut superstar, but the likes of Jhonard Clarito, Adrian Nocum, and other young guns are stepping up. Meanwhile, veterans Gabe Norwood and Beau Belga continue to provide leadership and toughness—two key ingredients in their Cinderella run.

The two teams may share a few similarities, but their contrasting tempos and philosophies make this series even more exciting.

Who will draw first blood in Game 1? We’ll find out later at the MOA Arena.