For Calvin Oftana, a stern talking-to from TNT Tropang Giga head coach Chot Reyes was never something to dwell on.

Following a subpar showing in Game 2 of the team’s championship series, Oftana revealed that Reyes did not hold back in expressing his disappointment. Yet instead of viewing the criticism negatively, the TNT forward saw it as a challenge to raise his level of play when the team needed him most.

The exchange came after a game in which Oftana struggled to make the impact expected of one of TNT’s key players. Known for his scoring ability and versatility, the former NorthPort standout found it difficult to establish a rhythm against an aggressive defensive scheme that limited his opportunities throughout the contest.

Despite the frustrations of the evening, Oftana said he understood the reason behind his coach’s strong reaction.

In a championship environment, he explained, expectations are naturally higher, especially for players entrusted with major responsibilities.

“That’s part of the game,” Oftana said when asked about Reyes’ criticism. “The coaches want us to perform at our best. When we fall short, they’re going to remind us of what we’re capable of.”

The forward admitted that his Game 2 performance did not meet his own standards. Rather than focusing on the criticism itself, he spent the days that followed reviewing mistakes and identifying areas where he could contribute more effectively.

That approach reflects the mentality that has helped Oftana develop into one of the league’s most dependable players.

Over the years, he has earned a reputation for responding well under pressure. Whether dealing with tough defensive assignments, shooting slumps, or high-stakes situations, Oftana has consistently shown an ability to move forward without allowing setbacks to linger.

His latest challenge was no different.

While outside observers may have focused on Reyes’ fiery message, Oftana viewed the incident as a normal part of professional basketball. Coaches and players, he noted, often have difficult conversations during intense playoff battles, particularly when championship aspirations are on the line.

For TNT, every possession matters at this stage of the season.

The Tropang Giga entered the series knowing they would face a disciplined and experienced opponent in Barangay Ginebra. With little separating the two teams, even minor lapses can have a significant impact on the outcome of a game.

That reality has pushed everyone within the organization to demand more from one another.

According to Oftana, Reyes’ comments were not intended to discourage him but to reinforce the urgency of the moment. The coach’s message centered on effort, focus, and execution—qualities TNT believes are essential in a title race.

The forward appreciated that honesty.

Rather than becoming frustrated, he used the criticism as fuel heading into the next game. Teammates noticed a more aggressive and determined Oftana in training sessions as he worked to regain confidence and sharpen his performance.

Veteran players within the TNT camp also emphasized the importance of maintaining perspective.

Several teammates pointed out that Reyes has always been known for his passionate coaching style. His demanding approach has helped guide numerous teams to success over the years, and players understand that accountability is a key part of the culture he seeks to establish.

For Oftana, that accountability begins with accepting responsibility for his own performance.

He acknowledged that there were opportunities he failed to capitalize on in Game 2 and stressed that improvement starts with self-evaluation. By recognizing those shortcomings, he believes he can put himself in a better position to help the team moving forward.

As the series progresses, TNT will continue to depend heavily on Oftana’s contributions.

His ability to score from the perimeter, attack the basket, and defend multiple positions makes him one of the team’s most valuable pieces. When he is performing at a high level, TNT becomes a more balanced and dangerous squad.

That is why his response after Game 2 has drawn attention within the team’s camp.

Instead of allowing criticism to become a distraction, Oftana transformed it into motivation. The experience served as a reminder of the standards expected from TNT’s core players and the commitment required to compete for a championship.

With the series entering a critical stage, the focus has shifted away from the conversation between player and coach and toward the games themselves.

For Oftana, the message has already been received.

The challenge now is to translate that lesson into consistent production on the court as TNT continues its pursuit of another title. If his track record is any indication, the forward is prepared to respond in the way he knows best—through his performance.

And for the Tropang Giga, that could make all the difference in the battles that lie ahead.