MANILA, Philippines – TNT Tropang Giga started its PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup title defense on Tuesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, defeating a resolute NorthPort squad 101-95 in a hard-fought game. Their campaign got off to a great start with the victory as they look to win the title again.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who played in the Commissioner’s Cup for a short while the previous season, returned to the court with a bang and gave an outstanding performance. With an impressive stat line that included 32 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals, and 4 blocks, he led the Tropang Giga. His ability to influence the game on both ends of the floor was demonstrated by his all-around play, which was crucial in achieving the early victory in Group A.

Calvin Oftana contributed to the team’s victory by being the first player in PBA history to score 15 points in a single game and making two four-pointers. Oftana’s accomplishment occurred shortly after the Meralco Bolts defeated the Magnolia Hotshots on Sunday night, 99-94. Jolo Mendoza, Paul Lee of Magnolia, and Chris Banchero of Meralco all made one four-pointer in that contest.

The early wins for TNT and Meralco demonstrate the PBA’s depth and talent this season, as well as the four-point shot’s increasing impact on the game. Teams like TNT will want to build on their impressive starts and pursue championship success as the Governors’ Cup goes on.

The club, led by Chot Reyes, also benefited from impressive performances by big man Poy Erram, who was back for the season, and recent off-season trade addition Rey Nambatac. With two key free throws in the closing seconds of the game, Nambatac, who finished with 13 points, was instrumental in helping TNT win. After a protracted layoff, Erram scored eight points and played a key role in a crucial 14-6 run. With just 32.6 seconds remaining, he made the play of the game when he set up Rondae Hollis-Jefferson for a vicious slam, extending TNT’s advantage to 99-91.

Even posting a near triple-double of 36 points, 16 rebounds, and 9 assists, NorthPort’s Taylor Johns was unable to lead his team to victory. Although Johns’ all-around performance kept NorthPort competitive the entire way, TNT’s depth and prompt execution proved to be too much to overcome.

TNT had an advantage, but the Batang Pier persevered. With 24.6 seconds left, Arvin Tolentino made a crucial four-pointer to cut the deficit to 99-94 and preserve NorthPort’s chances. The game was practically over when the Tropang Giga swiftly regrouped and forced a shot clock violation, despite a backcourt violation by TNT that allowed NorthPort another opportunity.

The win showed that TNT can win close games and that both young and experienced players can make significant contributions. Meanwhile, NorthPort’s perseverance showed that they can pose a threat to the best teams all season long.

Reyes thought that their ability to link together consecutive defensive stops and touchdowns during pivotal intervals was what made all the difference in the game. His team’s victory was finally secured by this series of plays, which gave them a much-needed cushion. The squad prevailed even though important players including Ryan Reyes, RR Pogoy, Kelly Williams, Brandon Rosser, and Henry Galinato were sidelined by injuries.

Reyes emphasised how crucial these spurts of efficient attack and defence were to them overcoming the obstacles the injuries presented and retaining their advantage throughout the match. The team’s perseverance and strategic discipline were demonstrated by their ability to perform in pivotal times despite having a reduced roster, highlighting the significance of collaboration and laser-like execution for success on the court.

Scores at the end of the match:

TNT with 101 points for the win

Individual scores: Hollis-Jefferson 32, Oftana 15, Nambatac 13, Khobuntin 12, Heruela 9, Erram 8, Castro 7, Exciminiano 3, Aurin 2, Ebona 0, Payawal 0, Vosotros 0.

NORTHPORT with 95 points

Individual scores: Johns 36, Tolentino 23, Cuntapay 8, Munzon 7, Jalalon 6, Bulanadi 6, Navarro 4, Nelle 3, Flores 2, Tratter 0, Yu 0, Amores.

Scores per quarter

22-23, 50-48, 76-69, 101-95