TNT import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson. PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – After a 0-2 start, TNT has captured back-to-back victories in the 2024-25 PBA Commissioner's Cup.
The Tropang Giga cruised past Blackwater, 109-93, to notch their second straight win on Thursday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Coach Chot Reyes said during the postgame interview that they intended to stop George King from the extended arc. As a result, the Blackwater import only made one out of six attempts on that range.
"During the last several days, we focused on how to stop George King. We all know his ability from the four-point line, so we really made it a point, we were very intentional in guarding the four-point line against George," said Reyes.
However, despite that percentage from the four-point line, King still managed to stuff the stats sheet by putting up a game-high 28 points and collecting nine rebounds.
That was offset by the efforts of the Tropang Giga, led by 2024 Governors' Cup Best Import awardee Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who had a team-high of 22 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and was also there for the passing with six assists.
Rey Nambatac was efficient on the floor, dropping 19 points on a 7-of-10 clip, while Calvin Oftana and Jayson Castro delivered 18 and 16 for the TNT firepower, respectively.
TNT also overcame the exit of big man Poy Erram, who had an apparent injury during the match.
That was the last game date for both teams for the year 2024.
The Scores:
TNT 109 – Hollis-Jefferson 22, Nambatac 19, Oftana 18, Castro 16, Pogoy 12, Khobuntin 10, Galinato 6, Erram 4, Razon 2, Varilla 0, Aurin 0, Exciminiano 0
BLACKWATER 93 – King 28, Ilagan 19, Chua 9, Kwekuteye 9, David 8, Suerte 5, Escoto 4, Ponferrada 3, Montalbo 2, Casio 2, COrteza 2, Guinro 1, Ayonayon 1, Jopia 0, Hill 0
QUARTERS: 28-18, 57-48, 82-69, 109-93