Nambatac powers TNT past Macau; Phoenix holds off Ginebra in Governors’ Cup

Rogelio Santino Sambillon

Tides were turned as the TNT Tropang 5G and Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots survived the late rallies of Macau and Ginebra, securing much needed victories, respectively, in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup at Smart Araneta Coliseum, July 19.

TNT Tropang 5G soared past Macau Giant Panda’s fourth quarter scare in a gritty 106–103 victory to secure their first win.

The Tropang 5G held the high ground coming into the 4th quarter with a 82–67 lead against Macau.

Pressing the advantage, Rey Nambatac charged TNT’s offense, draining back to back jump shots and free throws to solidify the gap at 98–83.

Despite trailing by 15 points, Damian Chongqui rallied Macau to 14–1 run in the last two minutes to inch closer to a comeback.

But time was cruel for the Giant Pandas as TNT thwarted every attack, pushing the ball to the hands of Liu Xucheng who missed a half-court shot before the last few ticks of the game.

Nambatac alongside TNT starter, Darius Days, both finished the game with 23 points each to power TNT’s opener.

TNT will mount their momentum coming into their second game against Titan Ultras on July 22 at Ynares Center in Antipolo, while Macau, now in its fourth loss, seeks their first win against Titan Ultras on July 22 at Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Phoenix spoils Ginebra’s opener

Phoenix Fuel Masters foiled Ginebra’s late surge, igniting an 81–78 win to keep their win streak at three.

Phoenix had the game under control early with Robert Johnson III and Ricci Rivero leading the charge.

The Fuel Masters kept the heat pouring as buckets landed consistently, eventually amounting to a 14 point deficit 4:30 minutes into the last quarter to stall Ginebra, 79–65.

Having a poor start, Ginebra picked up pace as Riley James Grigsby spearheaded the Barangay’s comeback story with 42 points and 13 rebounds, trimming the gap to three points.

Despite the Barangay’s grit, the gap was too large to ignore as a missed 4-point shot from Jeremiah Gray ended the game.

Phoenix starter, Johnson made his presence felt with 23 points with 11 rebounds, while Rivero contributed 16 points adding to the team’s firepower.

Phoenix sparks their next match against Rain or Shine on July 21 at Ynares Center in Antipolo, while Barangay Ginebra marches against Blackwater on July 24 at Smart Araneta Coliseum.