PBA

TNT erases double-digit deficit vs Rain or Shine for 2-0 start

TNT used a strong second half to turn back Rain or Shine, 105-100, and remain unbeaten in the 2023 PBA Governors' Cup on Friday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

The Tropang Giga stared at a 47-29 deficit late in the second period before ending the first half down by 13, 49-36. But the wards of head coach Jojo Lastimosa stepped on the gas in the third, outscoring the Elasto Painters 44 to 35 to head to the final period trailing by just four points, 84-80.

Mikey Williams delivered at the right time, nailing the dagger triple, 105-100, just when Rain or Shine was threatening a comeback with reinforcement Michael Qualls drilling five straight points to bring the Elasto Painters back to within two, 102-100, in the final 46 seconds.

RR Pogoy was also crucial in the second half with the former FEU standout firing three three-pointers in that stretch.

Williams finished with 24 points off the bench to go along with 10 rebounds, seven assists, and one steal while import Jalen Hudson produced 24 markers as well along with 14 boards, two dimes, one steal, and one block.

TNT improved its record to 2-0 while Rain or Shine dropped to 0-2.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News