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Tag: TNT Tropang Giga

  • Chris Ross playing through Achilles injury for San Miguel in Philippine Cup finals

    Chris Ross playing through Achilles injury for San Miguel in Philippine Cup finals

    Just when it appeared that TNT had finally wrestled control of the night, CJ Perez reminded everyone that the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals still belonged to him.

     

    In a pulsating Game 3 that swung wildly from quarter to quarter, Perez delivered one of the most ruthless closing performances of the series, erupting for 17 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter to lift San Miguel Beer to a 95–89 victory over TNT. The win, achieved in front of a loud and energized Sunday crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, pushed the Beermen to a 2–1 lead in the best-of-seven Finals and reaffirmed their championship pedigree.

     

    While Perez grabbed the headlines with his late-game heroics, San Miguel’s victory also came with a quieter, grittier storyline—one defined by sacrifice and toughness. Veteran guard Chris Ross has been playing through pain in his Achilles tendon as he continues to suit up for the Beermen in their title push.

     

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    Despite clearly not being at full strength, Ross has remained determined to contribute however he can, leaning on experience and leadership as San Miguel battles through a tightly contested series.

    “It’s still tight, but I just have to fight through it. The good thing is, we have two more days before the next game, so I can get a bit healthier to try and help the team,” Ross said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    The injury is not new. Ross has been dealing with the Achilles issue since the semifinals, and his condition appeared to worsen during Game 3. At the 11:08 mark of the third quarter, the 40-year-old guard took a hard fall that left him visibly limping as he made his way to the bench. He did not return to the game after the incident, raising concerns about his availability moving forward.

     

    Even from the sidelines, Ross remained focused on the bigger picture, praising his teammates for stepping up and stressing the importance of staying grounded despite the series lead.

     

    “My guys got my back, they played well tonight, we got the win. That’s all that matters. We take it game by game. The series is far from over, they are a really good team and we know they will make adjustments,” he added.

     

    Ross’ leadership has long been a cornerstone of San Miguel’s success, and his willingness to play through pain reflects the urgency and stakes of the Finals. Whether he can return to action will be closely monitored as the series progresses, especially with TNT expected to respond with renewed intensity.

     

    San Miguel will hope that the veteran guard can recover enough to take the floor when Game 4 between the two teams tips off on Wednesday, January 28, once again at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, as the Beermen look to tighten their grip on the Philippine Cup crown while TNT fights to level the series.

     

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  • “My concern is our fatigue”: Rey Nambatac wants TNT to work on their stamina ahead of Game 4

    “My concern is our fatigue”: Rey Nambatac wants TNT to work on their stamina ahead of Game 4

    Just when it appeared that TNT had finally seized control of the night, CJ Perez made it clear that the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals still ran through him.

     

    In a gripping Game 3 that swung sharply from quarter to quarter, Perez delivered a ruthless closing performance, erupting for 17 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter to carry San Miguel Beer to a 95–89 victory over TNT before a raucous Sunday crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The win pushed the Beermen to a 2–1 lead in the best-of-seven championship series and once again highlighted their ability to execute under pressure.

     

    Perez was relentless down the stretch, attacking the defense, finishing through contact, and knocking down timely baskets as San Miguel erased TNT’s late advantage. His fourth-quarter takeover flipped the momentum of the game and underscored why he remains one of the most feared closers in the league.

     

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    Despite falling behind in the series, TNT guard Rey Nambatac expressed confidence that the Tropang Giga can still rebound and reclaim control of the Finals. However, he did not shy away from identifying fatigue as a growing concern for his team, particularly in high-pressure moments late in games.

    “For me, we only need to adjust a little because our coaches have laid out the plans. My concern is our fatigue. We couldn’t take care of the lead and when we try to protect our lead, the tendency is we get tired and we lose our advantage,” Nambatac said after the game.

     

    The physical toll of the contest was evident in the closing minutes, especially for TNT’s frontline. Star big man Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser showed clear signs of exhaustion after logging more than 40 minutes of action. While he still produced a solid double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds, his fatigue late in the game limited TNT’s ability to match San Miguel’s intensity and execution when it mattered most.

     

    As the Beermen ramped up their defensive pressure and pace in the final period, TNT struggled to generate quality looks and secure crucial stops, allowing San Miguel to dictate the tempo down the stretch.

     

    With little room for error moving forward, Nambatac emphasized the need for improved stamina and conditioning as the series progresses. Facing a must-win situation, TNT knows it cannot afford another late-game fade.

     

    “In this next game or our next practice, we need to prepare more on stamina and our conditioning,” he added.

     

    The Finals now shift to a pivotal stretch, with TNT looking to even the series and San Miguel aiming to tighten its grip on the championship. Game 4 of the Philippine Cup Finals between the two teams is scheduled for Wednesday, January 28, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, where intensity, execution, and endurance are once again expected to decide the outcome.

     

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  • “May chance pa naman kami”: June Mar Fajardo stays optimistic after Game 1 loss

    “May chance pa naman kami”: June Mar Fajardo stays optimistic after Game 1 loss

    For three quarters, TNT Tropang Giga seemed to have Game 1 of the Philippine Cup Finals firmly under control. The Tropang Giga dictated the tempo, executed their game plan with precision, and built what looked like a comfortable lead against the San Miguel Beermen. But as is often the case in championship basketball, early dominance is rarely enough to secure victory. When the pressure mounted in the fourth quarter and the margin for error shrank, it was TNT’s composure, discipline, and timely execution that ultimately carried the day.

     

    TNT survived a furious late rally by the defending champions to escape with a 96–91 win in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The victory gave the Tropang Giga a critical 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven series and immediately set the tone for what promises to be a hard-fought, tightly contested championship matchup.

     

    Offensively, TNT leaned on a balanced team effort, with six players scoring in double figures. The Tropang Giga consistently punished San Miguel whenever defensive lapses occurred, ensuring they stayed ahead despite the Beermen’s relentless push. While the scoring was evenly distributed, veteran forward Kelly Williams quietly anchored TNT’s performance on both ends of the floor. The former PBA Most Valuable Player finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists — numbers that only partially reflected his overall impact. Williams’ calm leadership and ability to make crucial plays under pressure helped keep TNT in control during San Miguel’s late surge.

     

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    For the Beermen, record-holding PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo continued to assert his dominance in the paint, delivering a monster 24-point, 17-rebound performance. Despite his valiant efforts, San Miguel fell short in the end. Still, Fajardo remains optimistic about the series, acknowledging that a single game does not determine the championship.

    “Long series ‘to. ‘Di magiging madaling series ‘to para sa’min. May chance pa naman kami. Malayo pa ‘yan. So kailangan naming mag-bounce back. Kailangan naming mag-regroup,” Fajardo said after the game.

     

    The Beermen found themselves trailing by as much as 19 points in the first half, but they showed why they are the reigning champions. With improved defensive pressure, sharper execution, and a renewed sense of urgency, San Miguel clawed their way back in the second half, eventually cutting TNT’s lead to a single possession in the final moments. The rally, while ultimately not enough, demonstrated the team’s resilience and ability to adjust mid-game.

     

    Fajardo drew inspiration from his team’s comeback effort and believes San Miguel can carry that momentum into Game 2.

     

    “Yong bigs nila, tumitira sa labas. Ang dami nilang na-shoot na threes and ang laki ng hinabol naming noong first half. Talo kami sa first half pero panalo kami sa second half. Bawi na lang,” he said, highlighting the adjustments his team made in the second half and the lessons they will carry forward.

     

    Game 2 is scheduled for Friday, January 23, once again at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The Beermen will look to respond and level the series, while TNT will aim to build on its early momentum and tighten its grip on the championship. With both teams showcasing their depth, talent, and championship pedigree, fans can expect another thrilling encounter as the Philippine Cup Finals continues.

     

    As the series unfolds, attention will likely remain on TNT’s veteran leadership, San Miguel’s ability to adjust defensively, and how stars like Fajardo and Williams influence the series’ pivotal moments. One thing is certain: the battle for the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup is just beginning, and Game 2 promises to be another showcase of skill, strategy, and sheer determination.

     

     

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  • Leo Austria admits San Miguel’s bench struggles contributed to its Game 1 loss to TNT

    Leo Austria admits San Miguel’s bench struggles contributed to its Game 1 loss to TNT

    For three quarters, TNT Tropang Giga appeared to be firmly in control, dictating the pace and building what looked like a commanding cushion in the opening game of the Philippine Cup Finals. But as championship basketball often reminds, early dominance alone is rarely enough. When the pressure mounted and the margin for error shrank, it was TNT’s composure, discipline, and timely execution that ultimately sealed the result.

     

    The Tropang Giga survived a furious late rally by the San Miguel Beermen to escape with a 96–91 victory in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The win handed TNT a 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven series and immediately underscored the tone of what promises to be a grueling, tightly contested championship duel.

     

    TNT leaned on a collective offensive effort throughout the night, placing six players in double figures and consistently punishing San Miguel whenever defensive breakdowns occurred. While the scoring was spread evenly, it was veteran forward Kelly Williams who quietly anchored TNT’s performance on both ends of the floor. The former PBA Most Valuable Player finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists, numbers that only partially reflected his influence.

     

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    Williams’ most pivotal contributions came in the closing minutes of the fourth quarter, when San Miguel was threatening to complete a dramatic comeback. With the Beermen gaining momentum, Williams calmly orchestrated the offense from the high post, delivering back-to-back drop passes to Aaron Ganuelas-Rosser for two crucial interior baskets. Those plays stretched TNT’s lead to 90–83, momentarily halting San Miguel’s surge and giving the Tropang Giga just enough breathing room to steady themselves down the stretch.

     

    After the game, San Miguel head coach Leo Austria pointed to the early stages of the contest as the decisive factor, particularly the inability of his second unit to match TNT’s energy and production.

     

    “I think it’s very clear, you know, the first quarter or the first half you know is the culprit. Because we didn’t play the way we played before. They have a very clear game plan to stop our bench, especially ‘yung mga perimeter shooters namin,” Austria said post the game.

    The numbers backed up Austria’s assessment. TNT’s bench poured in a decisive 48 points, nearly doubling the 27 produced by San Miguel’s reserves. Don Trollano, typically the catalyst of the Beermen’s second unit, was effectively neutralized for most of the night and did not score until the final quarter.

     

    “Credit to the game plan of TNT, they were able to contain our shooters. If you noticed, ang gumawa sa amin ay puro big me. But our wingmen, especially the bench namin hindi sila masyado nag-score,” Austria added.

     

    Despite the struggles from the perimeter, San Miguel still found production from its frontline. June Mar Fajardo, Mo Tautuaa, and Rodney Brondial carried much of the offensive load, repeatedly scoring inside and controlling stretches of the rebounding battle. However, the limited output from veteran guards Chris Ross and Marcio Lassiter, coupled with the bench’s quiet night, proved costly against a TNT side that rarely let its focus waver.

     

    Even so, the Beermen showed exactly why they are the defending champions. After trailing by as many as 19 points in the first half, San Miguel clawed its way back with improved defensive pressure and sharper execution in the second half, eventually cutting the deficit to just one possession in the final moments.

     

    “The mere fact na we are able to get that kind of production in the second half, the chance is still there. It’s a matter of mindset. This is a championship game. Every possession is very important, especially in the first quarter.

     

    “I think next time siguro mai-address namin lahat and we should have a better plan. This is a best of seven and we have to adjust,” Austria concluded.

     

    With adjustments expected on both sides, Austria will be banking on a stronger showing from Trollano and the rest of San Miguel’s bench when the series resumes. Game 2 is set for Friday, January 23, once again at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, where the Beermen will look to respond and level the Finals, while TNT aims to build on its early momentum and tighten its grip on the championship series.

     

     

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  • “Keep everybody steady”: Kelly Williams reflects on role in TNT finals win

    “Keep everybody steady”: Kelly Williams reflects on role in TNT finals win

    For three quarters, TNT Tropang Giga looked poised to cruise to a comfortable win in the Philippine Cup Finals opener. By the end of the night, however, it wasn’t just early firepower that determined the outcome — it was composure under pressure that ultimately carried the day.

     

    The Tropang Giga had to withstand a late surge from the San Miguel Beermen and navigate a tense final stretch before emerging victorious, 96–91, in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The win gave TNT a critical 1–0 edge in the best-of-seven series and set the tone for a potentially long and hard-fought championship matchup.

     

    Offensively, TNT showcased a balanced attack with six players scoring in double figures, but it was Kelly Williams who quietly set the tone throughout the contest. The veteran forward, a former PBA MVP, finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists, yet his impact extended far beyond the box score. Late in the fourth quarter, Williams delivered back-to-back drop passes to Aaron Ganuelas-Rosser, resulting in two crucial inside baskets that pushed TNT’s lead to 90–83, temporarily halting San Miguel’s momentum and giving the Tropang Giga some breathing room.

     

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    Williams, the most experienced player on TNT’s roster, acknowledged the weight of responsibility he carries, especially in the absence of team captain Jayson Castro, who is sidelined due to injury. His role, he explained, is to maintain composure and calm among his teammates in high-stakes situations — a task he embraces wholeheartedly.

    “Yeah, that’s why coach Chot Reyes has me out there,” Williams said after the game. “My role is to keep everybody steady. I think I have probably the most experience in these finals situations, so I just try to guide the younger guys and make sure we execute under pressure.”

     

    The 43-year-old also drew inspiration from PBA legend Ranidel de Ocampo, whose jersey was recently retired by TNT. Williams said the ceremony reminded him of the value of staying calm amid chaos — a mindset he strives to emulate throughout the series.

     

    “I was reminded during Ranidel’s jersey retirement how important it is to remain calm in the storms,” Williams said. “I want to make sure I carry that energy not just for this game, but for the whole series. I trust our shooters to shoot, our guys to do what we need to do. Like coach said, our premium is playing defense and playing with a lot of energy, and that’s what I aim to help the team maintain.”

     

    Coach Chot Reyes lauded Williams’ leadership after the game, noting that his veteran presence was critical in helping TNT weather San Miguel’s late run and avoid potential mistakes in crunch time. “Kelly knows how to keep this team composed,” Reyes said. “His experience, decision-making, and calm energy were huge factors in this win.”

     

    With Game 2 scheduled for Friday, January 23, also at the Ynares Center, Williams and the Tropang Giga will aim to capitalize on their momentum and extend their lead in the series. If TNT can maintain their composure and continue executing in key moments, they will put themselves in a strong position to reclaim the Philippine Cup title.

     

    Beyond the stats, Game 1 showcased a team that blends youth and experience, firepower and strategy, and composure with intensity — qualities that TNT will need to sustain if they hope to emerge victorious in the finals. Williams, as the veteran anchor, will be central to guiding the team through the pressures and challenges that lie ahead.

     

     

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  • Jayson Castro nearing return from long injury layoff as TNT star eyes comeback next PBA conference

    Jayson Castro nearing return from long injury layoff as TNT star eyes comeback next PBA conference

    TNT Tropang Giga veteran Jayson Castro has missed the entire 2025 PBA Philippine Cup as he continues to work his way back from a major right knee injury suffered earlier this year.

     

    The 38-year-old floor general went down during Game 2 of TNT’s semifinal series against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the previous conference, an incident that immediately raised concern given the severity of the injury. Early reports projected a recovery timeline of around six months—an outlook that effectively ruled Castro out for the opening conference of the league’s landmark 50th season and forced TNT to navigate the all-Filipino tournament without one of its most decorated and dependable leaders.

     

    Despite the long layoff, there is growing optimism inside the TNT camp that Castro’s return is right around the corner.

     

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    Encouraging signs surfaced during Game 1 of the Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, when Castro was spotted joining the team during shootaround. Moving comfortably and showing no obvious signs of discomfort, the former Best Player of the Conference appeared eager to ramp up his preparations as the Tropang Giga chase a title with him watching from the sidelines.

    Castro also provided an upbeat update on his status, sharing that his recovery has progressed significantly in recent weeks thanks to consistent rehabilitation and additional work on his own time.

     

    “I have been doing some extra work so that I could shake off some rust,” Castro told reporters at the venue. “But my progress has been great and my recovery has been tremendous because of the work being done by our physiotherapists.”

     

    While he remains cautious and focused on ensuring his knee is fully strengthened before returning to game action, Castro believes he is nearing full health and is targeting the next PBA conference for his comeback—news that could provide TNT a major boost heading into the next phase of the season.

     

    “I’m still focused on strengthening my knee, but I think I’m fully recovered,” he added.

     

    Castro’s return would not only restore TNT’s backcourt depth, but also bring back a proven winner whose experience, leadership, and playmaking have long been central to the franchise’s success. With the Tropang Giga still fighting for the Philippine Cup crown, having their longtime star nearing a comeback could be the best possible reinforcement TNT can look forward to once the next conference begins.

     

     

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  • Jordan Heading shrugs off Finals MVP talk ahead of PBA Philippine Cup finals

    Jordan Heading shrugs off Finals MVP talk ahead of PBA Philippine Cup finals

    TNT Tropang Giga once again proved why it remains one of the PBA’s most formidable franchises, booking a return trip to the Philippine Cup Finals after surviving a tense 99–96 victory over the Meralco Bolts in Game 5 of their best-of-seven semifinal series at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, January 14.

     

    The hard-earned win not only closed out the series but also propelled TNT to its fourth consecutive finals appearance across conferences, a remarkable run that further cements the Tropang Giga’s status as a modern-day powerhouse in the league. In a matchup defined by momentum swings, defensive grit, and clutch shot-making, TNT leaned on its composure and experience to outlast a relentless Meralco side that refused to go quietly.

     

    At the center of TNT’s latest triumph was Jordan Heading, who delivered a masterful performance when it mattered most. The Filipino-Australian guard poured in a game-high 31 points, anchoring the Tropang Giga’s offense while showcasing his ability to score from all three levels. Heading repeatedly answered Meralco’s rallies with timely baskets, steady playmaking, and confident leadership, underscoring why he has quickly become one of TNT’s most reliable offensive weapons.

     

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    Since being acquired from the Converge FiberXers in early 2025 in exchange for Mikey Williams, Heading has seamlessly embraced a larger role within the Tropang Giga system. His Game 5 outing was another reminder of how pivotal that move has been for TNT, particularly in a conference where roster depth and guard play often determine championship outcomes.

     

    As TNT prepares for the Philippine Cup Finals, Heading enters the series under considerable spotlight. In the franchise’s last two title runs, the Finals Most Valuable Player honors went to guards Jayson Castro and Rey Nambatac—both of whom played instrumental roles in TNT’s championship victories in the Governors’ Cup and Commissioner’s Cup. Naturally, comparisons have followed, but Heading has made it clear that such narratives hold little weight for him.

    “Honestly, I couldn’t really care less about the Finals MVP. I think comparison is the thief of joy. If I compare myself to Jayson Castro or Rey Nambatac, I will have a lot of sleepless nights. I’m just going to be Jordan Heading and enjoy the ride,” Heading said in the pre-match press conference.

     

    With Castro sidelined for several months due to a torn patellar tendon and Nambatac only recently returning from a sprained ankle, Heading has taken on the responsibility of serving as TNT’s primary floor general. His steady presence has helped stabilize the Tropang Giga during a challenging stretch, allowing the team to maintain its championship aspirations despite key absences.

     

    For Heading, however, individual accolades remain secondary to the ultimate goal.

     

    “It’s really about the championship. That’s what on my mind. There is a reason why those Finals MVPs have been guards. I think our offense is always initiated by our lead guard. Whoever has the hot hands in games will be different. We have a lot of weapons on our team, there’s a lot of guys to cover and that’s even without Jayson. Hopefully, Roger Pogoy comes back soon as well,” he added.

     

    That depth has been a defining feature of TNT’s sustained success, with multiple players capable of stepping up on any given night. As the Tropang Giga continue their title pursuit, that balance—combined with Heading’s poise and leadership—will be crucial against a finals opponent that is still to be determined.

     

    The 2025 PBA Philippine Cup Finals are set to tip off on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. With momentum on their side and championship pedigree to lean on, TNT will look to convert another deep playoff run into silverware, fully aware that their resilience, cohesion, and collective belief will be tested at the highest level once more.

     

     

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  • PBA implements officiating measures ahead of 2025 Philippine Cup finals 

    PBA implements officiating measures ahead of 2025 Philippine Cup finals 

    The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that officiating in the Philippine Cup Finals between the San Miguel Beermen and TNT Tropang Giga is fair, transparent, and free from controversy.

     

    PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial confirmed that league officials have taken proactive steps to address concerns surrounding refereeing. On the eve of Game 1, representatives and head coaches from both finalist teams were invited to meet with league authorities to discuss officiating protocols and ensure clarity in communication between referees and coaching staff.

     

    “Nag-board meeting kami nung Thursday, pinag-usapan namin na dalawang head coach or coaching staff pupunta sa PBA tomorrow para kausapin mga referees na ia-assign namin sa Finals para makita appreciation sa tawagan; pano tawagan, magkaroon ng kaunting liwanag mga coaches pati mga referees,” Marcial said during a press conference ahead of the Finals, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and preparation.

     

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    The PBA’s increased focus on officiating comes in the wake of a controversial call—or rather, a missed call—during Game 5 of the semifinals between TNT Tropang Giga and Meralco Bolts. In the closing seconds, referee Jeff Tantay failed to call what appeared to be a crucial foul on Calvin Oftana as CJ Cansino went for a layup, a decision that sparked debate among players, coaches, and fans alike. Following the incident, the PBA suspended Tantay indefinitely, underscoring the league’s commitment to accountability and high officiating standards.

    Commissioner Marcial stressed that the Finals—given their high stakes and nationwide audience—require referees to perform at their best. “Tulad ng sinabi ng mga players, depende sa gising. Pero sa referees kailangan talaga laging handa. Masusupinde sila o baka matanggal sila,” he added, signaling the league’s zero-tolerance policy for mistakes that could affect the outcome of championship games.

     

    In addition to pre-game briefings with coaches, the PBA is also implementing measures to monitor officiating performance closely throughout the Finals series. These steps include reviewing referee assignments, clarifying rules interpretations, and ensuring that any potential conflicts or misunderstandings are addressed before tip-off.

     

    Game 1 of the Philippine Cup Finals is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, where the Beermen and Tropang Giga will battle for the first of a best-of-seven series. With the league emphasizing transparency, preparation, and accountability, both teams—and fans—can expect a clean, competitive, and professionally officiated series.

     

    As the Finals approach, the PBA’s proactive measures reflect its commitment to protecting the integrity of the game while ensuring that players, coaches, and referees operate under clear, fair, and consistent standards. For basketball fans across the Philippines, the series promises to deliver thrilling action, high-level competition, and officiating that matches the intensity of the game.

     

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  • Chot Reyes urges full belief as injury-hit TNT prepares for PBA finals

    Chot Reyes urges full belief as injury-hit TNT prepares for PBA finals

    The TNT Tropang Giga booked their place in the 2025 PBA Philippine Cup Finals after edging the Meralco Bolts, 99–96, in a gripping Game 5 of their best-of-seven semifinal series at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, January 14.

     

    With the win, TNT advanced to the finals for the fourth consecutive conference, further cementing its reputation as one of the league’s enduring powerhouses.

     

    Jordan Heading spearheaded the Tropang Giga’s charge with a game-high 31 points, delivering a dominant all-around performance and once again showcasing his value as one of TNT’s most dependable offensive weapons. Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser added 12 points, while Calvin Oftana chipped in 10, providing timely scoring and defensive stability in a tightly contested affair. TNT’s poise and execution in the closing minutes ultimately proved decisive against a Meralco side that refused to back down.

     

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    However, the victory came with a significant concern heading into the finals. Roger Pogoy, TNT’s top perimeter scorer and a key defensive presence, remains sidelined due to a lingering left hamstring injury. Pogoy was unable to finish Game 5 and has been ruled out for at least the opening games of the championship series.

     

    Despite the setback, head coach Chot Reyes stressed that belief and mindset will be crucial as TNT prepares for another finals appearance.

    “I feel that if we are coming into this series with less than 100 percent belief, then we have no chance. It starts from there. We have to have the belief that regardless of who’s healthy or not, we are going to come out and play our best game,” Reyes said during the pre-match press conference.

     

    “It doesn’t bother us too much. It doesn’t affect our belief whether we have Jayson Castro and Roger. They are a big, big part of our team. But in terms of our belief, it doesn’t bother us too much,” he added.

     

    TNT is no stranger to adversity on the sport’s biggest stage. Last season, the Tropang Giga faced eventual champions San Miguel in the Philippine Cup Finals without Poy Erram and still managed to put up a strong fight. Reyes acknowledged that the Beermen, should they advance, would enter the series as favorites given their experience and depth.

     

    “The problem is, even if we bring out our best game, it’s not a guarantee that we will beat a team as strong as San Miguel. In the end, that’s all we can do. All we can do is do our best. If that happens to be enough, then so be it,” Reyes concluded.

     

    With Pogoy sidelined, TNT is expected to lean more heavily on Heading, Ganuelas-Rosser, Oftana, and its supporting cast to shoulder the scoring load while maintaining defensive intensity. Reyes emphasized the need for tactical adjustments and rotation changes to offset the absence of their star guard.

     

    The Philippine Cup Finals are set to tip off on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, where TNT will face a yet-to-be-determined opponent. As the Tropang Giga chase another title, their depth, resilience, and collective belief will be put to the ultimate test.

     

    TNT fans will be watching closely, hopeful for Pogoy’s return later in the series, but confident that even without him, the Tropang Giga possess the talent, experience, and leadership to compete at the highest level.

     

     

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  • Chot Reyes confirms Roger Pogoy will miss start of PBA finals with left hamstring injury

    Chot Reyes confirms Roger Pogoy will miss start of PBA finals with left hamstring injury

    The TNT Tropang Giga punched their ticket to the 2025 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup Finals after a thrilling 99–96 victory over the Meralco Bolts in Game 5 of their best-of-seven semifinal series at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, January 14. With the win, TNT advances to the finals for the fourth consecutive conference, solidifying their status as one of the league’s perennial powerhouses.

     

    The Tropang Giga were led by Jordan Heading, who exploded for a game-high 31 points, dominating both ends of the floor and proving once again why he is considered one of TNT’s most reliable offensive weapons. Supporting him, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser and Calvin Oftana contributed 12 and 10 points, respectively, providing crucial scoring depth and defensive stability in a tightly contested matchup. TNT’s ability to execute in clutch moments ultimately separated them from a resilient Meralco squad that pushed them to the limit throughout the game.

     

    Despite the celebratory mood, TNT faces a significant setback heading into the finals: the absence of Roger Pogoy, the team’s best perimeter scorer and a stalwart defender. Pogoy has yet to recover from the left hamstring injury that forced him out of Game 5 and has now been confirmed to miss at least the opening games of the finals.

     

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    Head coach Chot Reyes, speaking on Power & Play, admitted that Pogoy’s recovery timeline is uncertain and expressed caution regarding the star guard’s return.

    “It’s very unpredictable. It doesn’t look good to be very honest about it. Alam mo ‘yung hamstring muscle, hindi naman ‘yan nate-therapy. It’s just rest and recovery. I don’t see him playing at least in the first two games. I would be really surprised kung makalaro siya,” Reyes said.

     

    He added, “So we are praying mapabilis ‘yung kanyang recovery, yung healing process. But like we said, there is nothing we can do about it. Hindi yan puwedeng strengthen, hindi ‘yan puwedeng palaksin.”

     

    The 33-year-old Pogoy reinjured his hamstring in Game 4 at the Mall of Asia Arena, where he could only log 64 seconds in the first quarter before limping out, a stark reminder of the fragility of hamstring injuries in professional basketball. When healthy, Pogoy has been an integral component of TNT’s system, averaging 13.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists over the four semifinals games he played. He also ranks among TNT’s top four free-throw shooters at 80 percent, underscoring his value in high-pressure situations.

     

    With Pogoy sidelined, TNT will likely rely even more on Heading, Ganuelas-Rosser, Oftana, and other role players to carry the offensive load and maintain defensive intensity. Coach Reyes emphasized that the team must adjust its rotations and strategy to compensate for the temporary absence of their star guard.

     

    The Philippine Cup Finals are set to tip off on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, where TNT will face a yet-to-be-determined opponent. The series promises to test TNT’s depth and resilience, as they aim to capture another championship while navigating the challenge of a key player sidelined during the crucial opening games.

     

    TNT fans will be watching closely, hopeful that Pogoy can return sooner rather than later, but aware that even without him, the Tropang Giga have the talent, experience, and leadership to compete at the highest level.

     

     

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