MANILA, Philippines – TNT Tropang-5G coach Chot Reyes was proud of his team’s performance in the PBA Philippine Cup, despite missing out on a rare Grand Slam. Although San Miguel Beermen won the title with a Game-6 win, Reyes emphasized that his players gave their all in a season beset by injuries.

Reyes noted that few teams reach the Grand Slam stage. TNT’s contention for all three conference championships—only the most dominating teams have done so—was impressive. He stressed that their trip was not shameful despite losing two games.

After winning the Governors’ and Commissioner’s Cups, TNT started the season strong. With more expectations came greater hurdles. Early ailments plagued the team: standout guard Jayson Castro was sidelined for the season with a knee injury, while Finals MVP Rey Nambatac had a groin strain. Due to injuries, Calvin Oftana, RR Pogoy, Simon Enciso, Kelly Williams, and Poy Erram missed significant time. With so many absences, TNT struggled in the postseason.

Through those challenges, Reyes demonstrated the team’s resiliency. He remarked that only one of the six finals games had a complete lineup and that most were severely limited. TNT defeated Magnolia in the quarterfinals and Rain or Shine in the semifinals despite several deficits. Their final appearance showed their grit.

TNT lost 107-96 to San Miguel in Game 6, despite their best efforts. Reyes maintained that the team maximized depth and skills. He noted that Jordan Heading and Kelly Williams provided energy and scoring without their stars, while younger role players took on larger responsibilities under duress.

Chot recalled the finals’ highs and lows. In Game 1, TNT won narrowly despite controversy, including a reversed offensive interference ruling that maintained their advantage. San Miguel emerged victorious in Games 2, 3, and 4, led by Jericho Cruz’s clutch triples and June Mar Fajardo’s inside presence. TNT won Game 5 by team defense and opportunistic scoring, forcing a decisive Game 6.

Despite the final series outcome, Chot echoed team owner Manny V. Pangilinan, who visited the squad and told them to bend in grief, not shame. His message was genuine and inspiring: TNT battled to the finish, played with emotion, and left nothing on the floor.

Reyes dismissed notions of a personal Grand Slam this season, reflecting on his background. He focused on his current mission rather than obsessing over his 2011 failure. He wanted to compete with integrity and effort, not repair past failings. He praised his veterans for staying calm and professional despite the odds.

Reyes discussed tactical changes. With limited frontcourt alternatives, TNT relied on Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser and Glenn Khobuntin for interior minutes. Both contributed energy and rebounding, but neither equaled Poy Erram’s veteran presence or June Mar Fajardo’s dominance. While struggling with physical restrictions, Heading and Williams led guard rotations in scoring.

Chot said the team’s culture outweighed its injuries. The team stayed together and competitive without top-tier weaponry. That showed resilience—an unwillingness to give in to circumstances and instead face them head-on.

TNT’s campaign was about collaborative growth, not tragedy, Reyes said. While the season ended without a historic sweep, it taught depth, leadership, and character. He praised his players for adapting to roles, responding under duress, and showing fans competitive spirit beyond victories and losses.

The finals win underlined San Miguel’s stability and depth, but Chot said it showed his team’s resilience against an undermanned but motivated opponent. TNT could push a powerhouse to six games with a damaged team, a badge of honor rarely spoken in championship situations.

Looking ahead, Reyes proposed a plan. The team will rest injured players and reevaluate rotations and conditioning. This season’s teamwork—especially during trials—will shape future goals. This year, TNT’s front office and coaching staff will build on the character shown on the court.

TNT Tropang 5G has reason to be proud, Reyes said, despite the Grand Slam dream. Their season finishes with dignity, unity, and the affirmation of a squad that never quit. He said their heritage is worth celebrating because of how they overcame the loss.

TNT fought, Chot Reyes says. Even though a three-conference sweep fell short, the team’s spirit remained strong.