MANILA, Philippines – Barangay Ginebra had advanced to the PBA Governors’ Cup finals earlier in the day, but TNT Tropang Giga’s resounding victory later in the day overtook them.

At the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo, TNT defeated the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters 113-95 to guarantee their spot in the championship round. The Tropang Giga’s victory not only advanced them to the finals but also maintained their chances of winning the PBA Governors’ Cup twice in a row.

Ginebra, meanwhile, defeated San Miguel Beer 121-92 to take a significant 3-2 series lead and move one step closer to a possible finals matchup with TNT. The Gin Kings, led by coach Tim Cone, are now only one victory away from making it to the finals and completing a series comeback. If it works, it would set up a much-anticipated rematch of the Ginebra and TNT championship matchup from the previous season.

Ginebra will try to end the series and set up an exciting rematch for the title, while June Mar Fajardo and his San Miguel Beer teammates will try to recover in Game 6 to maintain their hopes of winning the championship. As both sides compete for a chance at the championship and a chance to unseat the defending champions, TNT, the stage is set for an exciting finish.

After sealing their place in the championship round by defeating the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in five games during their semifinal series, the Tropang Giga will take a well-earned breather.

TNT will wait to see how Barangay Ginebra and San Miguel do in the other semifinal series as they get ready to defend their crown. At the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the Kings will try to defeat the Beermen on Sunday. If required, a Game Seven might be held on Wednesday.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and his Tropang Giga colleagues are prepared to give it their all in the finals, despite their increasing weariness.

After victories in Games One, Two, and Four, RHJ was once again Mr. Do-It-All, finishing with 36 points, 11 rebounds, nine assists, and six steals. The Tropang Giga was given the opportunity to deliver the game-winning basket, and the TNT locals provided strong backup.

Kim Aurin scored 12 points, all from beyond the arc, while Rey Nambatac, Calvin Oftana, Poy Erram, Kelly Williams, and Glenn Khobuntin each contributed eight points. RR Pogoy finished with 19 markers after firing three treys.

The Tropang Giga began the second quarter with a 12-to-nothing roll after winning the first one 28–25, and it was all TNT after there.

As TNT Tropang Giga guaranteed its place in the finals, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson spoke of confidence and preparedness. Hollis-Jefferson calmly stated that although they were happy with their victory, the road was far from done. They advanced to the PBA Governors’ Cup finals thanks to the win, although winning is still their major objective.

Hollis-Jefferson admitted that while the team celebrated their win, it was merely a step toward their main goal. He emphasized how crucial it is to use the time before the finals to recuperate and rejuvenate. The team now turns their attention to watching the other semifinal series to determine who wins. TNT will start their last preparations for the championship matchup as soon as the opponent is determined.

During this brief respite, Hollis-Jefferson emphasized the importance of maintaining both physical and mental readiness. The squad is aware that they must continue to play at a high level in order to win the championship because the finals bring a different level of competition. The attitude is unmistakable: take pleasure in the win while maintaining focus on the wider picture.

As Hollis-Jefferson pointed out, TNT’s journey isn’t finished until they raise the championship trophy, but their accomplishment thus far has been a monument to their tenacity and fortitude.