PBA IMAGES
Mahindra played the role of giant beater once more as it tripped erstwhile undefeated TNT, 107-104, in the 2016 PBA Governors’ Cup Friday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Enforcer snapped the KaTropa’s six-game winning streak and claimed solo second place at 6-2.
“My guys were really dialed in, going into the game, and I told them it would take nothing less but championship effort,” said Enforcers assistant coach Chris Gavina. “The willingness to play for one another, the selfless style of play kicked in and it gave us the win.”
Mahindra was the surprise team of the Governors’ Cup after speeding to a 4-0 start and taking down proven powers in San Miguel, Alaska, and Star.
Gavina not only commanded the Enforcers to another impressive win, but also to the team’s first playoff berth.
“We’re happy we made franchise history, this is the first time we got six wins in franchise history,” said Gavina whose team joined the PBA in 2014.
With less than a minute remaining and the Enforcers holding a 103-96 lead, TNT had a chance to trim it down but a couple of costly turnovers immediately sealed the Katropa’s fate.
Jayson Castro tried to salvage some points, hitting a three with 12 seconds left to cut the Enforcers’ lead to 106-98, but time was not on the Katropa’s side.
James White filled up the stat sheets for the Enforcers finishing with 24 points, 10 boards, three blocks, and two steals.
Paolo Taha added 15 points for Mahindra while KG Cañaleta had 13.
Castro led TNT with 33 points, 26 of which came off in the second half, while import Mychal Ammons had a 20-point, 15-rebound night.