TNT’s Ryan Reyes. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Ryan Reyes has been TNT’s old reliable but it’s on the defensive side of things when he’s usually called upon.
The 6-foot-2 wing is the Tropang Giga’s resident import stopper but he did more than defending in their 119-92 victory over Barangay Ginebra in the 2021-22 PBA Governors’ Cup.
Reyes, 38, shot lights out hitting a career-high 8-of-9 from deep for 24 points whilst guarding the Gin Kings’ Justin Brownlee.
“His shooting and offense is certainly a bonus,” said TNT head coach Chot Reyes, no relation, Friday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“Ryan is in our team because of his defense and that’s his main contribution. Last game against San Miguel he guarded Orlando Johnson, now he guarded Justin Brownlee.”
Reyes’ hot shooting made him the oldest player in PBA history to make eight three-pointers and his 24 points equal his best offensive output with TNT, a club he’s been with for the past 12 years.
The 15-year veteran also had his highest scoring output over the last six seasons.
“Any production we get from him is a huge bonus,” said Chot.
As for his defensive accomplishments against Ginebra, Reyes managed to at least slow down Brownlee to 25 points on 2-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc.
Brownlee, who’s the main focus of Gin Kings’ offense, averages 27 points a game this conference.