TNT def Magnolia, 84-82 [PBA S49 Govs’ Cup | Sep. 17, 2024]
The TNT Tropang Giga have successfully secured their spot in the playoffs, but they remain determined to intensify their efforts in hopes of achieving a higher seed in the PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals.
Coach Chot Reyes and his squad are laser-focused on this ambition as they prepare to face a Magnolia team that is desperately vying for a playoff berth on Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The Tropang Giga and the Hotshots will clash at 7:30 p.m., with TNT aiming for their seventh victory in just eight games, while Magnolia seeks to notch their fifth win against three losses in Group A.
With only two wins needed to clinch the top position in the group, TNT is on the brink of advancing to the crossover quarterfinals, where they would face the lowest seed from Group B in a best-of-five series.
The promising news for the Tropang Giga is the return of a deeper roster, bolstered by the reactivation of Kelly Williams from the injured list and the comeback of Calvin Oftana, who has overcome his own health challenges.
Both players made significant contributions in their recent triumph over the Meralco Bolts, winning 108-99 and extending their winning streak to four games.
Oftana led the way with an impressive 25 points, while Williams added nine, enhancing the team’s inside presence and defensive prowess.
In the upcoming showdown against the Hotshots, Williams is anticipated to take on the primary defensive role against Magnolia’s Shabazz Muhammad.
Muhammad, along with the Hotshots, is in the midst of a crucial push to secure a place in the Final Eight.
The Magnolia import faced limited playing time due to foul trouble but managed to sink the decisive basket in their thrilling 99-98 victory over Terrafirma on Thursday, keeping them hot on the heels of TNT and Meralco in the Group A standings.
Currently positioned at 4-3, the Hotshots are a half-game ahead of the Converge FiberXers (4-4), with the NorthPort Batang Pier following closely in fifth place at 3-5. The Terrafirma squad has been eliminated from contention, sitting at 0-8.
