In a commanding display, the TNT Tropang Giga defeated the Magnolia Hotshots 92-70 in the opening game of their best-of-five PBA Season 50 Governors' Cup quarterfinal series on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson was the standout player, scoring 16 of his total 26 points in the second half, showcasing his return to form following a 10-month absence due to an Achilles injury.
The former Brooklyn Nets forward also recorded nine rebounds and five assists, highlighting his importance to the defending champions.
TNT's Balanced Attack
Alongside Hollis-Jefferson, Calvin Oftana contributed a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Rey Nambatac and Roger Pogoy each added 12 points, demonstrating the team's depth.
Despite KJ Buffen leading Magnolia with 18 points and nine rebounds, the team struggled, trailing by as much as 25 points during the game.
We showed our championship experience today, and we are ready for the challenges ahead,” said Hollis-Jefferson after the game.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, TNT Forward
In another quarterfinal matchup, NLEX secured a narrow 97-92 victory over the Phoenix Super LPG, thanks to key performances from Robert Bolick and Deonte Burton.
Burton led NLEX with 27 points and 11 rebounds, while Bolick added 20. Phoenix's Ricci Rivero scored 24 points, but a late flagrant foul on Marcellus Earlington proved detrimental.
- TNT aims to defend their title after last season's success.
- Hollis-Jefferson's recovery is vital for TNT's playoff hopes.
- NLEX seeks to extend their lead in the series on October 28.
The next matchup for NLEX against Phoenix is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, at the same venue, as they look to take a commanding 2-0 lead in their series.