PBA: Calvin Oftana leads local charge to push TNT closer to finals

TNT Tropang Giga’s Calvin Otana plays a key role in Game 2 of the PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals against Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines–Calvin Oftana showed the importance of locals playing well on Friday in Game 2 of the PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals at Araneta Coliseum.

The Tropang Giga relied more on Oftana, for a change, to notch the 108-91 victory and the pivotal 2-0 advantage.

“It’s what we need. And that’s really how it should be. We can’t put it all on our import,” said Oftana in Filipino.

SCHEDULE: 2024 PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals

“We know Rondae. He’s only human, he gets tired, so we [locals] need to step up with our game, not just in this one but also the rest of the series.”

Oftana finished with a double-double of 18 points and 14 rebounds to push the Tropang Giga close to another PBA Finals appearance.

Hollis-Jefferson still did his thing with 23 points and eight rebounds but missed 10 of his 19 shots.

That’s where Oftana and the locals stepped in to still keep the Elasto Painters at bay.

READ: PBA: TNT pulls away to beat Rain or Shine for 2-0 semis lead

Coach Chot Reyes lauded Oftana alongside his fellow locals for their efforts on offense but more especially, on defense.

“Everything starts on defense and our defense involves all five guys. They’re doing their part in defending Rain or Shine’s action especially with how potent they are offensively,” said the veteran tactician.

“That’s really where we’re focused and that’s where the locals play such a big role,” added Reyes.

Rain or Shine import Aaron Fuller was limited on offense with just 13 points and six rebounds while the entire Elasto Painters felt the TNT’s wrath on defense as they were held to just 32.1 percent shooting clip from beyond the arc.

Tropang Giga looks to keep rolling with a 3-0 lead on Sunday for Game 3 in Dasmariñas, Cavite.