TNT survives San Miguel’s late fightback, takes Game 1 of PH Cup Finals
TNT held off a formidable second-half onslaught from San Miguel, emerging with a hard-fought 96-91 victory to take the opening game of their best-of-seven Finals matchup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on Wednesday, Jan. 21.
The Tropang 5G soared to a commanding 19-point lead in the first half, showcasing their prowess, but found themselves weathering a late rally from the Beermen. San Miguel narrowed the gap to just one point in the closing moments before Jordan Heading calmly sank four critical free throws to seal the victory for TNT.
While the spotlight often shines on the formidable San Miguel bench, a proven asset for the defending champions throughout the conference, it was the Tropang 5G who demonstrated remarkable depth in Game 1. Seven players contributed at least eight points, exemplifying the team’s balanced offensive attack.
Kelly Williams was instrumental in setting the tone early, leading the charge with 15 points and nine rebounds. Calvin Oftana made significant contributions in the crucial final period, finishing with 13 points alongside 10 rebounds and five assists, delivering several key baskets when it mattered most.
Heading, cool under pressure, added to the scoreboard with 13 points and eight rebounds, while teammates Henry Galinato and Rey Nambatac chipped in 12 and 11 points, respectively. The trio proved vital in propelling TNT’s bench points to a staggering 48, significantly outpacing San Miguel’s supporting cast, which mustered only 27 points.
Despite the impressive bench performance and a stellar first half, TNT struggled to shake off San Miguel, who clawed their way back into contention – coming within just one point at 91-92 after consecutive baskets from Jericho Cruz.
In the tense final moments, TNT escaped danger as Don Trollano’s three-point attempt fell short, preventing the game from heading into overtime.
The defeat overshadowed a remarkable effort from San Miguel’s towering duo, June Mar Fajardo and Mo Tautuaa. Fajardo showcased his dominance with 24 points and 17 rebounds, while Tautuaa, previously averaging just over eight points per game in the semifinals, erupted for 22 points.
CJ Perez contributed 16 points, but the Beermen were hindered by the lack of production from Cruz and Trollano, who combined for only 12 points, leaving them just short in a fiercely contested game.
