TNT’s Roger Pogoy. –PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines–TNT got back to its winning ways on Saturday following a 78-71 victory over Meralco in the 2022 PBA Philippine Cup Saturday night at Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
The Tropang Giga drew 19 points from Roger Pogoy, and 16 more from Troy Rosario. Poy Erram tossed in 13 while Jayson Castro 10 as the defending champions hiked their record to 3-2.
Meralco proved a formidable lot down the stretch behind Allein Maliksi’s 20 points. Chris Newsome and Bong Quinto added 13 each while Chris Banchero 12 in the club’s first loss in three games.
Relief is now within reach for TNT, as Chot Reyes revealed that top gun Mikey Williams is on his way back to the Philippines—a sign that contract negotiations have finally reached a resolution.
The Tropang Giga hopes to build a streak with the Fil-Am guard around when it plays Rain or Shine Thursday next week.
Meralco, meanwhile, shoots for a rebound against NorthPort in the curtain-raiser of that playdate.
The Scores:
TNT 78 – Pogoy 19, Rosario 16, Erram 13, Castro 10, Alejandro 8, Heruela 5, Khobuntin 3, Marcelo 2, K.Wiliiams 2, Cruz 0, Reyes 0, Ganuelas-Rosser 0, Banal 0.
Meralco 71 – Maliksi 20, Newsome 13, Quinto 13, Banchero 12, Hodge 6, Almazan 5, Hugnatan 2, Baclao 0, Pascual 0, Jose 0, Caram 0.
Quarterscores: 16-19, 31-32, 57-54, 78-71.