Pogoy lifts TNT past Meralco for 3rd win

TNT’s Philippine Cup Redemption: How the Tropang Giga Outplayed Meralco in a PBA Classic
The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup is more than just a tournament—it’s a battleground where legacy teams like TNT Tropang Giga and Meralco Bolts write new chapters in their storied rivalry. Their latest clash was no exception: a high-stakes showdown where TNT snapped a two-game losing streak with a gritty 98–93 victory. Beyond the scoreline, this game was a masterclass in resilience, star power, and tactical adjustments. From Roger Pogoy’s explosive fourth quarter to Rondae Hollis-Jefferson’s ice-cold free throws, the Tropang Giga proved why they remain title contenders—even when their backs are against the wall.

Pogoy’s Fireworks and Hollis-Jefferson’s Clutch Gene

If TNT’s win had a MVP, it was Roger Pogoy. The veteran wing dropped 34 points, with 16 coming in the final quarter alone, torching Meralco’s defense with a mix of step-back threes and relentless drives. His performance wasn’t just scoring—it was *timely* scoring. Every Meralco rally was met with a Pogoy bucket, deflating the Bolts’ momentum. Meanwhile, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, the team’s import, played the role of closer. His two free throws with 3.2 seconds left sealed the game, but his impact ran deeper: playmaking, defensive stops, and a team-high +12 plus/minus. The duo’s synergy—Pogoy’s local brilliance and Hollis-Jefferson’s all-around game—exposed Meralco’s defensive gaps.

Cochess Chess Match: Lastimosa’s Adjustments vs. Meralco’s Grit

Meralco’s physicality and defensive schemes (like their notorious zone) usually stifle opponents, but TNT coach Jojo Lastimosa had a counterpunch. He shortened his rotation, leaning heavily on Pogoy and Hollis-Jefferson down the stretch, while deploying small-ball lineups to spread the floor. The gamble paid off: TNT shot 42% from three, compared to Meralco’s 28%. Lastimosa also exploited Meralco’s slow-footed bigs by switching defensively, forcing the Bolts into contested mid-range jumpers. Meralco’s Chris Newsome (22 points) and Allein Maliksi (18 points) fought hard, but TNT’s adaptability—especially in crunch-time execution—made the difference.

The Bigger Picture: Playoff Implications and Rivalry Fuel

This wasn’t just a mid-season win—it was a statement. TNT’s victory halted their skid and reasserted their place in the playoff race, while Meralco’s inconsistencies (like their 0-for-8 shooting drought in the fourth) raised questions about their closing ability. The rivalry’s intensity also shone through: 5 lead changes, 8 ties, and a combined 47 fouls reflected the physical, emotional stakes. For fans, it was a reminder of why this matchup delivers drama—whether it’s Pogoy’s heroics or Hollis-Jefferson’s NBA-caliber poise.
TNT’s win was a microcosm of their season: flawed but fearless. Pogoy and Hollis-Jefferson carried the offense, Lastimosa outmaneuvered Meralco’s staff, and the team’s “next man up” mentality (like bench guard Kib Montalbo’s pesky defense) filled the gaps. As the Philippine Cup heats up, this game could be the spark TNT needs—or a warning to rivals that the Tropang Giga are far from done. One thing’s certain: when these teams meet again, expect another 40 minutes of fireworks.