TNT Tropang Giga Secures Playoff Spot with Win Over Phoenix
In an intense game at the PhilSports Arena on Sunday, January 14, TNT Tropang Giga secured the last spot in the playoffs of the 2023-’24 PBA Commissioner’s Cup by defeating Phoenix with a final score of 116-96.
TNT Tropang Giga, who had been struggling in their previous games with a three-game slide, found their mark in the second half and broke out of their shooting slump. They dominated the game in the third frame, hitting seven of their 16 triples to take control of the contest from the Fuel Masters.
Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson put on an impressive performance, flirting with a triple-double by scoring 35 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds. However, it was the strong support from Calvin Oftana, Kim Aurin, Brian Heruela, and RR Pogoy that made the difference for the Tropang Giga. Each of them nailed at least three triples, with Oftana contributing 19 points, 12 of which came during the pivotal third quarter run.
Following the win, TNT improved to a 5-6 record and secured their spot in the playoffs, while also eliminating NLEX from contention.
On the other hand, Phoenix ended up in a four-way tie in the second to fifth spots with San Miguel, Barangay Ginebra, and Meralco, all with similar 8-3 records. Despite the tie, Phoenix ended up at the fourth spot due to an inferior quotient against San Miguel, who claimed the second seed, and Barangay Ginebra, who sealed the third spot.
Import Johnathan Willams led Phoenix with 21 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists, while Jjay Alejandro and Tyler Tio added 10 points each.
The victory for TNT Tropang Giga was a significant feat as they secured their spot in the playoffs after a challenging run of games, while Phoenix now awaits their matchup in the postseason.
