By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The TNT Tropang Giga had another walk in the park after hosting a demolition party on the banged-up Terrafirma Dyip, 133-93, in the ongoing PBA Commissioner’s Cup last November 22, 2023.
Absent for the Dyip was their reinforcement Thomas de Thaey who was diagnosed with a groin injury he suffered during their last outing against the NLEX Road Warriors.
Without de Thaey, Terrafirma just had no answers to Tropang Giga’s firepower led by import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson who dropped 37 points alongside six rebounds, six assists, a steal, and a block.
Jefferson spearheaded TNT’s insane 41-point third quarter after leading by just three points, 58-55, at the end of the half.
Terrafirma’s pace had something to do with the tight contest in the first half as their quick answers helped them keep themselves within striking distance.
Defensive adjustments were then deployed by the TNT coaching staff that slowed Terrafirma down, limiting them to just 16 markers in the whole third period.
After TNT built the large lead heading into the fourth, Terrafirma failed to bounce back and trim their deficit to single digits.
Backstopping Jefferson in the convincing win was Calvin Oftana and Jayson Castro who each delivered 15 points for the Tropang Giga.
Henry Galinato, TNT’s Rookie center, didn’t shy from the bright lights and chipped in 15 including 11 in the final frame.
On the other hand, Terrafirma got a double-double performance of 14 points and 10 rebounds from Isaac Go but his effort wasn’t enough as three other players only joined him in reaching the double-digit mark.
Terrafirma also missed the veteran presence of top scorer Juami Tiongson who had to sit the game out due to flu-like symptoms.
TNT will look to extend its winning streak on November 26, 2023, as they are set for a highly-anticipated clash with the Meralco Bolts.
