Author: Bon Maddagan
The reigning Governors’ Cup Champions, TNT Tropang Giga, kicked off their title defense on a high note, securing a hard-fought win over a feisty Northport Batang Pier squad.
Hollis-Jefferson Leads TNT’s Charge
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson returns to the league, turning heads yet again. He delivered another masterful performance, racking up 32 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, four steals and four blocks.
His stellar play was complimented by brilliant contributions from their locals. Their latest addition Rey Nambatac impressed posting 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. Calvin Oftana had 15, including two four-point shots and 7 rebounds. Poy Erram was efficient, he had a nice 8 points and 4 rebounds.
The Northport Batang Pier, on the other hand, witnessed a mighty display from Taylor Johns, who feasted in the paint and came close to a triple-double with 36 points, 16 rebounds, and 9 assists. Arvin Tolentino, following his Mythical Team selection, continued to shine with 23 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Unfortunately, the team would struggle to find reliable help beyond these two, costing them the game.
The game remained tense until the end. TNT despite missing RR Pogoy, Henry Gallinato, Ryan Reyes, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, and Kelly Williams due to injuries, managed to stay ahead. But a late surge by Northport, including a crucial four-pointer from Tolentino, cut the deficit to 99-95 with 24.6 seconds to play.
The Batang Pier had another chance to pull closer as the Tropang Giga, who was feeling the pressure, turned the ball over. But their defense rescued them from their errors, stepping up when it mattered the most. They held strong and denied the Batang Pier a shot, forcing them into a shot clock violation in the final moments. TNT ultimately held on with the win.
The Scores:
- TNT 101 – 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 95 – Johns 36, Tolentino 23, Cuntapay 8, Munzon 7, Jalalon 6, Bulanadi 6, Navarro 4, Nelle 3, Flores 2, Tratter 0, Yu 0, Amores 0
- QUARTERS: 22-23, 50-48, 76-69, 101-95
*Photo Credit: PBA
