Troy Rosario shows way as TNT escapes Phoenix to go 3-0

TNT had to mount a huge second half in escaping Phoenix Super LPG, 84-80, to maintain an immaculate 3-0 record in the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup Sunday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

The Tropang Giga were trailing until the early part of the third quarter but a layup by veteran Jayson Castro handed the team its first lead of the game, 56-55.

The Fuel Masters, though, gained back the advantage in the fourth quarter after a 12-6 run, seven of which came from rookie Aljun Melecio, 73-66.

TNT trailed 77-70 before Troy Rosario notched eight consecutive points as part of a 10-0 run, capped by a basket from RR Pogoy, 80-77.

RJ Jazul tied the game again with a three-pointer, but it was again Rosario with a clutch basket, 82-80, to keep the Tropang Giga in front. Jason Perkins tried to tie the match with seconds left through a layup but failed no thanks to the defense of Pogoy.

Rosario finished with team-high 15 points to go with eight rebounds while Pogoy had 13 markers, four rebounds, and three steals.

Phoenix, who dropped to 1-4, was led by Matthew Wright who chipped in 15 points, five rebounds, and three assists. Perkins added 14 while Chris Banchero poured 12.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA News