TNT defeats Rain or Shine, takes 2-0 lead in PBA Governors’ Cup Semis
The TNT Tropang Giga have taken a 2-0 lead in their PBA Governors’ Cup semifinal series against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, defeating them 108-91 in Game 2 of their best-of-seven semifinal series on Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Tropang Giga blew the game wide open in the third quarter, unleashing a massive 38-21 run to turn a slim 47-44 halftime lead into an insurmountable 85-65 advantage heading into the final period.
Calvin Oftana and Rey Nambatac were the catalysts behind TNT’s third-quarter explosion, with Oftana scoring 13 in that span, while Nambatac contributed 11 of his 17 points during the decisive stretch. Oftana capped his stellar night with a double-double, grabbing 14 rebounds to go along with his 18 points.
Import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson was again the steady force for TNT, leading all scorers with 23 points and grabbing eight rebounds. With their offense firing on all cylinders, the Tropang Giga led by as much as 26 points, 91-65, early in the fourth quarter before coasting to their second straight win.
TNT’s balanced attack proved too much for the Elasto Painters to handle, as Rain or Shine had no answers for the Tropang Giga’s offensive onslaught.
Jhonard Clarito was the bright spot for Rain or Shine with a team-high 18 points, while import Aaron Fuller managed only 13 points and was held to just six rebounds, a far cry from his 21-board performance in Game 1.
The victory puts TNT in firm control of the series with a 2-0 lead, as they continue to push toward another Governors’ Cup title defense. Rain or Shine will need to regroup quickly as they head into a crucial Game 3 on Sunday in Dasmariñas, Cavite, with their backs against the wall.
With TNT riding high on momentum and Rain or Shine searching for answers, Game 3 could prove pivotal as the Tropang Giga look to move within one win of the Finals.
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