Hot-shooting TNT routs San Miguel in Game 4 to level Finals series at 2-games apiece

The TNT Tropang 5G lit up the scoreboard, leveling their PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals series against the San Miguel Beermen at two games apiece with a commanding performance.

Calvin Oftana and his teammates found their rhythm, overpowering the Beermen, 110-87, in Game 4 of the best-of-seven showdown on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. Oftana, a former standout at San Beda University, led the charge with 29 points, including five three-pointers, along with six rebounds and four steals.

“It was crucial for us to get our offense on track. To beat a team like San Miguel, scoring is essential,” stated TNT head coach Chot Reyes following the victory.

“Thankfully, we shot exceptionally well from the field, but the key takeaway was that we played a complete game. Against a team of this caliber, that’s the way to win – performing for the full 48 minutes,” he emphasized.

Also making significant contributions were Jordan Heading, who banked a remarkable four-point shot from beyond the arc en route to 17 points and six assists, while Rey Nambatac chipped in 13 points, complemented by five rebounds and three assists.

As they prepare for Game 5, TNT will strive to reclaim the series lead in what has evolved into a best-of-three battle, scheduled for Friday at 7:30 p.m. at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

The Tropang 5G will look to replicate their explosive start from Game 4.

After trailing 4-6 early on, TNT surged with 13 consecutive points, establishing a 17-6 lead with 5:41 left in the opening quarter – a momentum shift that set the tone for the entire contest.

The team sustained its offensive onslaught, widening the gap to 28 points, 58-30, by halftime after shooting an impressive 59.5 percent from the field.

TNT further extended their advantage, pulling ahead by as much as 35 points, 82-47, following a Simon Enciso three-pointer with 5:24 remaining in the third quarter – a deficit that proved insurmountable for the Beermen.

However, a notable concern for TNT moving forward is the status of RR Pogoy, who reaggravated his hamstring injury and exited the game during the second quarter. His return remains uncertain as the Finals progress.

On the other hand, June Mar Fajardo, who was honored as the Best Player of the Conference, saw his celebratory night marred by the defeat, despite posting an impressive 18 points and 16 rebounds.

READ: June Mar Fajardo named PBA Best Player of the Conference once again
Don Trollano contributed 13 points, while CJ Perez struggled, finishing with 11 points on a challenging 4-of-15 shooting from the field.