TNT extends run to six; NorthPort up
TNT overcame a wobbly start to slip past Meralco, 116-113, in a Petron Saturday Special game of the PBA Governors’ Cup, as the KaTropa extended their unblemished run to keep the solo elimination round lead at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
KJ McDaniels dealt most of the damage on the Bolts, pouring 51 points that went with four blocks to win a much-anticipated matchup with another marquee import in Allen Durham.
The win was the sixth straight for the KaTropa, while the Bolts were doomed to their second loss in five games after Durham missed the potential overtime-forging triple at the buzzer.
“We just had to stick together and stay positive. I’m glad that my teammates picked it up,” McDaniels said.
RR Pogoy tossed in 23 points to go with skipper Jayson Castro’s 21.
“We understand that other teams are coming for us,” McDaniels said as TNT practically sewed up a quarterfinal appearance with the win.
Durham had 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists.
Meanwhile, NorthPort snapped a four-game losing streak earlier after clipping Phoenix Pulse, 80-70.
The Batang Pier improved to 2-4 while dealing the Fuel Masters their fifth loss in seven games.
“At least my players are now gaining confidence,” NorthPort coach Pido Jarencio said in Filipino.
It was the Batang Pier’s first win in their last six encounters with the Fuel Masters, who drew just 14 points from import Eugene Phelps.
Alex Mallari had 15 points to lead Phoenix as he filled the scoring void left by Matthew Wright, who played limited minutes due to a foot injury.
Jarencio said he got everything he asked of his wards: a better mind-set, holding down Phoenix below 80 points, and more rebounds and transition points.
They just need to sustain it, especially against San Miguel Beer next.
“We played well, we defended well. I just hope we’re able to keep it up,” Jarencio said.
