TNT dominates Ginebra in Game 1 to take early Finals lead
The TNT Tropang Giga made a statement in the opening game of the 2024 PBA Governors’ Cup Finals, dismantling Barangay Ginebra 104-88 on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
With a balanced offensive display and stifling defense, the Tropang Giga claimed the upper hand in the best-of-seven series, putting the defending champions on notice.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson led TNT’s all-around effort, posting a double-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists. But it was the depth of TNT’s roster that shone brightly, with five players hitting double figures.
Rey Nambatac, who battled nerves in his Finals debut, proved pivotal, adding an 18-point, 10-rebound, seven-assist performance, capped off by two steals. Veteran Jayson Castro came alive in the third quarter, orchestrating a 12-point burst to help TNT build a 14-point cushion heading into the final period.
The game saw TNT take control from the outset, setting the pace with a blazing 19-4 run in the first quarter, establishing a lead that Ginebra never managed to overcome. Although the Gin Kings narrowed the deficit to six points at halftime, 43-37, their struggles from beyond the arc—just 2-for-21 on three-point attempts—and an overall field goal percentage of 39% kept them out of reach.
In the fourth quarter, Nambatac sealed the deal, scoring 10 points in the first four minutes and pushing TNT’s lead to a game-high 20 points, 89-69, with 7:31 left on the clock.
Ginebra’s resident import Justin Brownlee tried to rally his team with a game-high 23 points, along with seven rebounds and six assists, but his efforts fell short against TNT’s well-rounded attack.
The Tropang Giga will aim to double their lead in Game 2 on Wednesday, October 30, at the Araneta Coliseum, hoping to keep their momentum rolling and inch closer to the Governors’ Cup crown.
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