Tropang 5G connection restored, breathing life to ‘Slam’ chase
It seems that TNT is finally getting the hang of things following an alarming start in its quest to overcome the final hurdle of its Grand Slam ambition—the team just notched a third consecutive victory at the expense of a tough Meralco side on Sunday in the PBA Philippine Cup.
“We’re definitely seeing some improvement,” coach Chot Reyes said after the Tropang 5G defeated the Bolts, 101-84, at Ninoy Aquino Stadium to go 3-3 in the all-Filipino tournament.
Nine days prior, TNT was in the midst of a quandary as the conference began with losses to NLEX, Converge and Phoenix, its play hardly resembling the crisp offense and stingy defense that were ingredients in taking the Governors’ Cup and Commissioner’s Cup trophies.
TNT has struggled to play without import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who the team had for two-thirds of its season, and Jayson Castro, who is still out with a knee injury. But one of the most glaring flaws of the Tropang 5G that was in its control was the fact that the team isn’t as connected as before—a fact Reyes lamented after a game against Phoenix.
Things, however, have taken a drastic turn for the better.
“Admittedly, I want it to be a better record,” said Reyes. “But we can’t complain with [a] 3-3 [record], given the way we started. The players did a great job staying connected and staying together.”
Injured groin
TNT now sits seventh as the standings shuffled a bit following another week of action. Magnolia is still the lone unbeaten team at 5-0, followed by NLEX at 4-1. San Miguel Beer is at 4-2 while Barangay Ginebra and Rain or Shine are even at 3-2.
RR Pogoy dropped 16 of his season-high 34 points after hitting three triples and one four-pointer that resulted in the final score not reflecting how things were tight between the two sides. Pogoy did end up cramping after a torrid shooting display.
A concern as well for TNT is Rey Nambatac, who hurt his groin during the fourth and didn’t return. If things look bad, it may put the Tropang 5G in a dilemma, especially with Castro sidelined.
TNT’s next game is on May 21 against Rain or Shine at Ynares Center in Antipolo City, a 10-day layoff which could be beneficial or detrimental depending on how the Tropang 5G capitalize on their recent form.
Pogoy’s offensive binge supported another strong game from Calvin Oftana, who had 28 for TNT. Oftana has averaged 24.3 points during the streak, which also saw a tough win over San Miguel Beer and a thrashing of hapless Terrafirma.
“The key has been how the players are being patient. And when that happens, the ball finds its intended target,” said Reyes.
