MANILA, Philippines – Full speed forward, full throttle. TNT has regained control. After their previous endgame chase was unsuccessful, the Tropang Giga managed to win a close game Wednesday night, winning 87-85 to take a two-game lead in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

In the final eighteen minutes of the game, the Tropang Giga won’t be stopped with crucial hits from Rey Nambatac and Glenn Khobuntin, but the Gin Kings showed off their never-say-die mentality by playing without Justin Brownlee due to injury.

Even without Justin Brownlee, TNT head coach Chot Reyes reminded his players that they can still expect Ginebra to play at its best. He reminded them that Ginebra was still a strong, well-rounded club that could compete at the highest level even without their star import.

Given that Ginebra’s depth and experience could still present a major obstacle, Reyes emphasized the significance of staying focused and playing with energy. He exhorted his team to match the intensity of their rivals and carry out their strategy precisely.

Reyes said his squad stayed calm as Ginebra gained a three-point lead in a pivotal part of the game. TNT remained focused, trusted their system, and made astute moves rather than losing their cool. He cited that instance as the pivotal moment when TNT’s fortitude and capacity to withstand stress made the difference.

Although TNT head coach Chot Reyes recognized the tremendous difficulty of playing Ginebra, a formidable squad, he praised his players for rising to the occasion and being composed in the face of difficulty. He underlined that one of the most important aspects of winning was retaining mental toughness under duress. He emphasized that the series was far from finished and that the next games will require the same degree of resiliency.

When top immigrant Justin Brownlee was forced to leave the game early due to a right thumb injury, Ginebra suffered a significant blow. When it looked like Brownlee had dislocated his thumb, it happened at 6:42 in the third quarter. He was sent to the hospital right away for more testing. His availability for Friday’s Game Four at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo is still questionable, which could have an impact on Ginebra’s future strategy.

TNT took advantage of the situation and produced a powerful conclusion. The Tropang Giga were in a tight 82-all tie late in Game Two after winning Game One 95-89. However, they were able to take control thanks to important hustle plays. Rey Nambatac’s clutch three-pointer and Glenn Khobuntin’s fast-break layup were the game-changing shots that gave TNT the win.

Nambatac led the squad with 24 points, putting up an impressive effort. In addition to producing seven assists, five rebounds, and four turnovers, he made an outstanding five of seven three-pointers. His outstanding performance was reminiscent of his Letran collegiate days and represented his peak playing form.

TNT’s ability to come back from a nine-point hole late in the first half was a major factor in their win. The team gained momentum thanks to Nambatac’s aggressive play and leadership, which ignited the comeback. His quick scoring and court awareness were crucial to TNT’s second series victory.

With 20 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson nearly recorded a triple-double. However, it was his hustles and defensive stops that helped TNT win in the closing minutes.

RHJ grabbed up the loose ball and fired a fastbreak that sent Khobuntin finishing what turned out to be the game-winning basket after Kelly Williams’ defensive gem led RJ Abarrientos to make a critical mistake.

With 14.4 ticks remaining and trailing 82-87, the Gin Kings managed to close the margin to two thanks to a three from Scottie Thompson. However, they were no longer able to prevent the Tropang Giga from regaining control of the series.

Before leaving, Brownlee had 19 points, six assists, and four rebounds.

Scores at the end of the match

TNT with 87 points for the win

Individual Scores: Nambatac 24, Hollis-Jefferson 20, Oftana 16, Khobuntin 10, Pogoy 8, Erram 5, Aurin 4, Williams 0, Heruela 0.

Ginebra with 85 points

Individual Scores: Brownlee 19, Thompson 15, Rosario 13, Abarrientos 13, Malonzo 11, J.Aguilar 6, Holt 5, Ahanmisi 3.

Scores per quarter

17-17, 42-48, 72-66, 87-85