TNT decimates NLEX, now a win away from clinching PBA semis berth

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The TNT Tropang Giga displayed one of their most efficient performances in the postseason after demolishing the NLEX Road Warriors, 109-91, during their PBA Governor’s Cup quarterfinal clash on September 29, 2024, at the Ynares Center.

After two nip-and-tuck battles that were decided by single digits in games 1 & 2, the Tropang Giga this time imposed their will and banked on a consistent defensive display to slow down the Road Warriors.

Unlike the past two games where the Road Warriors managed to inch close in every quarter, the Tropang Giga deployed some minor adjustments in Game 3, particularly in their coverage of Robert Bolick and DeQuan Jones.

NLEX’s super duo dominated the Tropang Giga in Game 2 that steered the Road Warriors to an even 1-1 quarterfinal series.

However, in Game 3, TNT gave them both different looks, kicked off by an unusual mixed zone defense that took Jones out of his comfort zone which is in the perimeter.

The Tropang Giga then decided to alternate defenders for Bolick as head coach Chot Reyes deployed three bodies that could bang with the star floor general.

With their top assignment already inked with a green check, TNT finished the job with a waxing hot performance in the shooting field in the last two quarters.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson didn’t skip a beat and delivered another stellar performance for TNT with 27 points, 12 rebounds, eight assists, a steal, and a block.

Joining Jefferson in TNT’s masterclass was Calvin Oftana, their main local scorer who contributed 18 markers alongside five boards.

Rey Nambatac, one of the main reasons why TNT was able to establish a 20-point advantage in the first half, ended up with 17 points.

The Tropang Giga will aim to wrap up the series win today, in the last game of the scheduled doubleheader of the PBA Playoffs.