KJ McDaniels explodes for 51 as TNT escapes Meralco for 6-0 card

TNT import KJ McDaniels. PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines–TNT overcame a wobbly start to slip past Meralco, 116-113, and extend its unblemished run in the PBA Governors’ Cup race Saturday at Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.

KJ McDaniels dealt most of the damage for KaTropa, pouring 51 points and posting four blocks to outplay his counterpart Allen Durham, who had 43 points but missed a chance to tie the game as the clock expired.

“We just had to stick together and stay positive. I’m glad that my teammates picked it up,” said the TNT import in a televised interview. “We understand that other teams are coming for us.”

RR Pogoy tossed in 23 points to go with skipper Jayson Castro’s 21 in TNT’s third close shave that kept them at solo No. 1 with a 6-0 card.

Durham had an equally commendable performance for the Bolts, nearly posting a triple-double as he also added 12 rebounds and nine assists.

Meralco’s local cast provided significant contributions with three players finishing in double digits but squandered at keeping its foes at bay when it mattered.

The conference pacesetter battles listless Alaska next on Friday at Ynares Center in Antipolo. Meralco, meanwhile, looks to right its ways when it plays 1-3 Blackwater in the curtain-raiser.