MANILA, Philippines – In order to make up for Jayson Castro’s untimely season-ending knee injury, his colleagues on TNT had to put in extra effort and go above and beyond their normal responsibilities. Calvin Oftana, who overcame a temporary slump and became a vital member of the Tropang Giga’s successful attempt to defeat Rain or Shine in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals, was one among those who enthusiastically accepted this assignment. TNT guaranteed their spot in the finals with consecutive wins.

In Games 2 and 3, Oftana had performed poorly, averaging just 10 points on 7 of 21 shots, or a 33 percent field goal percentage. In Game 4, though, he found his shooting form again and led his team with 26 points on a 12-of-21 shooting percentage. TNT triumphed 93-85 thanks to his efforts, taking a decisive 3-1 series lead. He continued to play well, backing Rondae Hollis-Jefferson’s 42-point, 11-rebound performance in Game 5 with a 12-point, 12-rebound double-double. TNT defeated Barangay Ginebra, their longtime rivals, 97-92 thanks to this performance, which also guaranteed them a spot in the final game. Oftana was named the PBA Press Corps-Pilipinas Live Player of the Week for the period of March 5–7 because of his outstanding performances in these crucial games.

Oftana emphasized that his ability to step up was essential to the team’s success and acknowledged the importance of his contributions, particularly in Castro’s absence. He saw his job not only as an individual endeavor but also as a component of a team ethos that required all healthy players to take on more duties. He admitted that the team as a whole had the same mentality and recognized the significance of making up for the loss of a vital leader. The objective was to win back-to-back titles in Season 49, especially after winning the Governors’ Cup earlier in the season. Oftana’s performance demonstrated his will to close the deficit left by Castro and make sure TNT was still a serious candidate for the crown in spite of the loss.

Oftana emphasized the importance of his teammates’ efforts in addition to his own accomplishments. He emphasized how important Kim Aurin was to the team’s overall effectiveness on defense, offering the kind of intangibles that don’t always show up on the stat sheet. He also highlighted Kelly Williams’ leadership, especially his defensive presence against Rain or Shine import Deon Thompson. Williams played a key role in the team’s series victory by serving as the defensive cornerstone and offering seasoned leadership on the court. Oftana realized that although his individual efforts to score and grab rebounds were important, the team’s overall performance was what allowed them to overcome Rain or Shine’s obstacles and make it to the championship game.

After a stellar run of performances in the semifinals, TNT’s dynamic forward, Oftana, was named Player of the Week for the mid-season conference. He defeated other worthy competitors, like as Barangay Ginebra’s Jamie Malonzo and RJ Abarrientos, who both contributed significantly to the Gin Kings’ resounding 126-99 victory over NorthPort, guaranteeing their place in the championship game. Given how much he helped his team succeed, TNT’s Rey Nambatac was also a contender for the coveted award. But because of his outstanding play in the pivotal semifinals, Oftana was the one who ended up winning Player of the Week.

Members of the PBA press corps, a committed team of reporters who cover the league for a variety of tabloids, broadsheets, and internet outlets, decided to give Oftana the honor. Oftana’s exceptional performances, which demonstrated his capacity to step up when his team needed him most, had an impact on their collective assessment. In addition to being crucial in helping TNT win, his contributions demonstrated his increasing significance as a vital member of the squad.

Oftana’s reputation as one of the league’s most promising players has been solidified by his capacity to step up and perform under duress. Oftana’s performances will surely continue to be essential to TNT’s success as they pursue another title. His selection as Player of the Week is indicative of his developing position on the squad and his potential to contribute significantly to the PBA for many years to come.