The TNT Tropang 5G capped off a day of blowouts at the Ynares Center in Montalban with a workmanlike but at times explosive 93-78 whipping of the Phoenix Fuel Masters to get their PBA Season 50 campaign off to a winning note.
What Happened?
TNT got better and better as the game wore on. After a tight first half that saw Phoenix keeping the game close, 45-42, the Tropang 5G turned on the jets in the third, outscoring the Fuel Masters 21-14 to blow the game open entering the fourth, 66-56. TNT piled on to the lead in the fourth for its first win in PBA Season 50.
Who Stood Out?
Everyone. It seems cheating, but it just seemed every one of the Tropa played well versus Phoenix. But noteworthy, in particular, was Rey Nambatac, who was back like he never left, putting up 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists. Newcomers Kevin Ferrer and Jio Jalalon also played superbly, with Ferrer finishing with 12 points on four triples and Jalalon contributing 4 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and lots of full-court pressure D.
For Phoenix, Evan Nelle came off the bench to scatter 9 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals as he made a strong case as potentially the Fuel Masters’ starting point guard moving forward.
3 Keys to the Game
- Tropang three-points. TNT is known for its long bombs, and its three-ball certainly was falling against Phoenix. With Ferrer and Simon Enciso each hitting four treys, the Tropa converted 15 in total on 35 attempts for a robust 42.9% clip. Phoenix, in contrast, was 6-for-23. That’s a 27-point difference right there.
- Tropang rebounding. Stopping TNT’s offense is difficult enough. Giving them second and third opportunities is a recipe for disaster. The Tropang 5G outclassed Phoenix on the offensive glass, 16-9, leading to 19 second-chance points for the former as opposed to 8 for the latter.
- Tropang defense. Last season, TNT showed fangs on D. The Tropa appear ready to do the same this season, especially with pesky defenders Ferrer and Jalalon joining the mix. The two veterans ramped up the full-court pressure and made things difficult for Phoenix, who couldn’t string together enough points to make a big run.
Next Up for the PBA
Opening-day foes Titan Ultra Giant Risers and Meralco Bolts will return to action, this time against separate foes and PBA Season 50 debutants Converge FiberXers and Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. This doubleheader will take place at the Ynares Center in Montalban.
Titan Ultra vs. Converge | Meralco vs. Rain or Shine
