TNT-Meralco Sibling Duel: Offense vs. Defense Showdown | PBA Sing Showdown 2023
The Governors’ Cup of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is heating up as the semi-finals between TNT and Meralco approach. It is different from your typical basketball game since both sides have unique strengths in their playstyles. TNT is a high-scoring offense that averages 118 points per game, whereas Meralco thrives on its strong defense.
It is a rematch of their 2019 semi-final matchup, in which the Tropang Giga defeated the Bolts. The game’s terrain remains the same; with TNT’s offensive firepower and Meralco’s superb defensive talents, the two teams will win again for a spot in the finals.
TNT, the top seed in the playoffs, is on a nine-game winning streak and is keen to keep it going in the semi-finals. Nevertheless, their key player Kelly Williams is expected to miss the whole best-of-five series due to injury. Yet coach Jojo Lastimosa is upbeat and believes his team can reach the finals, especially if their other players stand up.
To stay up with the Bolts’ defensive style, Dave Marcelo and the returning Poy Erram are standing in for Williams and will need to contribute considerably. Conversely, TNT boasts a strong lineup of forwards and guards, including Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, RR Pogoy, Calvin Oftana, Mikee Williams, Jayson Castro, and Glenn Khobuntin, who will definitely provide firepower to their game.
On the other hand, the Bolts are the top defensive team and have been driven by a passionate desire to capture the coveted title. Norman Black, Meralco’s coach, feels the key to their success is balance and fresh legs, especially after a grueling struggle against Magnolia in the quarter-finals. Black also knows that TNT is a run-and-gun club that enjoys moving the ball rapidly, so his squad must be prepared to match TNT’s speed.
Considering TNT’s scoring prowess and Meralco’s strong defense, Black feels “something has to give one way or another.” Both teams’ imports bring interest to the contest, notably Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and KJ McDaniels, former NBA teammates. McDaniels was with TNT the last time the Bolts met them in the semi-finals, and he will be a player to watch in this rematch.
The game between TNT and Meralco in the semi-finals promises to be entertaining and action-packed. Both teams will exhibit their strengths and compete for a spot in the finals, where the victor will meet the Barangay Ginebra-San Miguel Beer match winner. Viewers can expect an exciting and thrilling game as the two teams compete for a spot in the final match.
