TNT draws first blood against Magnolia in PBA Finals

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The TNT Tropang Giga squad had the better of the Magnolia Pambansang Manok, 88-70, and blasted them in Game 1 of the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup Finals.

After a grueling seven-game semifinal series against the star-studded San Miguel Beermen team, the Tropang Giga showed no signs of fatigue and continued their efficient output in Game 1 of the highly-anticipated finals clash.

TNT started the game with their usual defensive tenacity that forced several turnovers against the fresh Pambansang Manok, a tactic they mastered after they dispatched a tough Meralco Bolts team in six games during the semis.

With just 12 minutes in, the Tropang Giga quickly established a 24-14 lead that saw their defensive patience pay off.

However, in the second quarter, Magnolia head coach Chito Victolero attempted to counter coach Chot Reyes’ defensive sets by ordering Ian Sangalang and Calvin Abueva to attack the rim at will.

The move seemed to pay off as they were able to put the Tropang Giga in the penalty with seven minutes left in the second quarter. The only problem was Magnolia wasn’t able to capitalize from the charity stripe and finished the game with a disappointing 26 free throws sank on 44 attempts.

Offensive struggles and poor shooting from the free throw line ultimately doomed Magnolia once the second half started as super rookie Mikey Williams continued his offensive onslaught and top-scored TNT with 21 huge points.

It was also a total team effort for TNT as Kelly Williams was able to contribute 10 points, JP Erram with 14, Troy Rosario with 8, and RR Pogoy with 7.

Meanwhile, Magnolia wasn’t able to get the production they needed from their stars as main gunner Paul Lee only had 12 while the rolling Sangalang only had five.

Magnolia will have the chance to equalize the finals series at 1-1 when they meet today in Game 2 of the PH Cup.