TNT opens Governors’ Cup title defense with win over NorthPort

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson made a spectacular return, scoring 32 points as TNT kicked off its title-defense campaign with a thrilling 101-95 victory over NorthPort in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Tuesday, Aug. 20.

The versatile Hollis-Jefferson took charge in the second half, netting 19 of his points, including four crucial ones in the closing seconds that sealed the deal against a determined Batang Pier side.

With this win, TNT joined Meralco at the top of the Group A standings, both boasting identical 1-0 records.

The reigning Governors’ Cup import dominated the stat sheet, contributing 10 rebounds, five assists, four blocks, and an impressive defensive presence in a showdown against NorthPort’s import, Taylor Jones, who nearly achieved a triple-double with 36 points, 16 rebounds, and nine assists.

Calvin Oftana provided solid support, chipping in 15 points, highlighted by a perfect 2-of-2 performance from four-point range—making history as the first player to hit multiple four-pointers in a single game.

The Tropang Giga appeared to be in control, with Hollis-Jefferson electrifying the crowd with a dunk that extended TNT’s lead to 99-91 with just 33 seconds remaining. However, the Batang Pier fought back as Arvin Tolentino sank his own four-point shot, narrowing the gap to just four.

Yet, TNT’s defense held firm, forcing NorthPort into a 24-second violation, extinguishing any hopes of a comeback.

Rey Nambatac shone in his TNT debut with 13 points, while Glenn Khobuntin added another 12 to the mix.

Tolentino led the charge for the Batang Pier with 23 points in a valiant effort.