TNT TEARS DOWN PHOENIX

TNT unleashed its full offensive might through the last three periods to annihilate Phoenix, 106-70, officially booking a playoff spot and keeping alive its bid for a top 2 finish in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup on Friday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

The Tropang Giga held the Fuel Masters to just 29 points through the middle quarters, while striking for 54 markers, turning what was then a close contest into a lopsided result.

The win enabled TNT to bounce back from a heart-breaking 117-108 loss to Terrafirma, forging a three-way tie in the standings with Eastern and Meralco, just behind NorthPort and Converge, which are tied for the number one spot with similar 8-3 cards.

The FiberXers and the San Miguel Beermen are playing as of posting time.

Import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson didn't have to extend himself offensively after getting plenty of support from the TNT locals.

The two-time PBA Best Import led TNT with 15 points, 10 rebounds and five assists, Roger Pogoy added 12, while Kim Aurin and Calvin Oftana each had 11.

Phoenix, which officially dropped out of the playoff race, closed its conference campaign with a 3-9 record.

Tyler Tio led Phoenix with 14 points, while import Donovan Smith was held down to just 11 on 5-of-15 shooting. He managed to grab 15 rebounds.

Kai Balungay also scored 11 for the Fuel Masters.

2025-01-24T11:55:32Z