TNT import Terrence Jones. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Terrence Jones has been practically tearing apart opposing defenses for TNT since the start of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, averaging 42 points a game in the KaTropa’s hot 2-0 start.
But NorthPort managed to find a way to slow down that raging firepower, subduing Jones and TNT and handing them their first loss, 110-86, Wednesday at Mall of Asia Arena.
Main guard Jayson Castro acknowledged that while Jones has been carving up defenses on his own, the team could do more if they played within their system.
“We all know that he can score any time he wants but it’s much better for him to get his points more comfortably within the system,” said Castro, who had 10 points, four rebounds, and three assists in the win, said in Filipino.
Jones finished with just 17 points on 5-of-15 shooting with 14 rebounds and five blocks.
TNT, as a whole, was dismal compared to the Batang Pier, registering a 39.5 percent clip or 32-of-81 while NorthPort got into its groove, shooting at 53.8 percent or 42-of-78.
Tith three games left until their next game, the KaTropa will be focusing on how to get the load of Jones’ back when it comes to offense.
“We still have three days to adjust so we can help Terrence,” said Castro whose KaTropa slipped to a 2-1 record. “I think one of the adjustments that we will make is how to change our offense because we go for a lot of 1-on-1 matchups.”