Tropa seized the top playoff spot while the Kings dropped to third place
TNT Tropang Giga’s dominant performance in the PBA Governors’ Cup elimination stage has established them as the team to defeat in the playoffs. They have won the top spot and the coveted twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals with a strong 10-1 record.
The Tropang Giga’s recent triumph over the Barangay Ginebra Kings demonstrated their tenacity and drive. Although behind by 14 points with fewer than seven minutes remaining, they staged an astonishing comeback, outscoring the Kings 30-7 in the game’s closing minutes. Import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who scored 34 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, four assists, and four steals, was the driving force behind the Tropang Giga’s unexpected triumph. Mikee Williams and RR Pogoy also contributed significantly, with 25 and 22 points, respectively
TNT’s victory not only guaranteed them the top seed in the playoffs but also ended Ginebra’s chances of finishing first. With an 8-3 record, the Kings, who had an opportunity to secure the top seed with a win, were demoted to third place.
The Tropang Giga will have some time to recover and prepare for their next quarterfinal encounter against the fifth-seeded Magnolia Hotshots, with the playoffs due to begin on Sunday. They will have a big edge over their opponents as the first seed and will be looking to build on their momentum and advance to the semis.
Overall, the PBA Governors’ Cup playoffs are an entertaining and unexpected event, with the top four teams (TNT, San Miguel Beer, Ginebra, and Meralco) capable of winning the title. It remains to be seen whether the squad will emerge successful in their quest for the prized trophy, with TNT leading the fight.