PBA teams continue EASL slump with TNT loss to Abando, Anyang

TNT Tropang Giga.–EASL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–TNT couldn’t end the struggles of PBA teams in the East Asia Super League after falling short to Rhenz Abando and his South Korean club Anyang, 105-97, on the road Wednesday.

The Tropang Giga got the buck of their scoring production from imports Quincy Miller and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Calvin Oftana but the lack of support coupled with the strong showing of the hosts sent them reeling to a 0-4 record in Group A.

Choi Seong-won and import Darryl Monroe were among the key reasons for Anyang improving to 2-0 following the game held at Anyang Gymnasium.

Abando scored 13 points for the reigning Korean Basketball League champions and EASL Champions Week winners.

Miller finished with 35 points for the Tropang Giga, who virtually ended any chance of advancing to the Final Four while dropping four of their last five games in all competitions including the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Hollis-Jefferson had 29 points, eight rebounds and five assists while Oftana added 25 points. But only Kib Montalbo and Glenn Khobuntin were the other players who scored for the Tropang Giga.

TNT’s remaining EASL matches are against the Taipei Fubon Braves on Dec. 20 and Anyang on Jan. 24, both at home.