TNT Tropang Giga held off a late rally to beat Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots 84–82 in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup at Ninoy Aquino Stadium, extending their winning streak in a tense, physical matchup.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson powered TNT with a dominant 29-point, 25-rebound double‑double, controlling the paint and stabilizing the team on both ends. His presence inside helped the Tropang Giga stay competitive in a game that featured frequent lead changes and strong defensive pressure from both sides.
Roger Pogoy added 19 points to support the offense, while Calvin Oftana chipped in 10. TNT looked poised to pull away at several points, but missed free throws—finishing 21-of-32 from the line—kept Magnolia within striking distance and allowed the Hotshots to stay in the game until the final minutes.
Magnolia leaned on Shabazz Muhammad, who led all scorers with 30 points and provided a consistent inside threat. Paul Lee contributed 13 points, including a clutch three‑pointer late in the fourth quarter that cut the deficit to a one‑possession margin, while Jerrick Ahanmisi added 12 to keep the pressure on TNT’s defense throughout the game.
The Hotshots took control in the third quarter, outscoring TNT to claim a 64–60 lead heading into the final period. However, TNT responded with tighter defense and better execution in the fourth, regaining composure in a high‑pressure stretch that featured multiple momentum swings and key defensive stops.
With the outcome on the line, veteran guard Jayson Castro stepped up in the closing seconds, calmly converting crucial free throws to preserve the narrow lead and secure the win for TNT.
The victory strengthens TNT’s position at the top of Group A and keeps them on a strong run as one of the leading title contenders in the conference. Magnolia remains competitive but will need to tighten up in late‑game situations as they push to stay in the playoff picture.
For more PBA updates, game recaps, and in-depth coverage of the local season, follow Midori Sports News.
