PBA: TNT’s Glenn Khobuntin saves best for last in Finals

TNT players celebrate after a big shot by Glenn Khobuntin in Game 7 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals against Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—Barely a factor for the TNT Tropang Giga in the first six games of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals, Glenn Khobuntin showed up when it mattered most.

In the biggest game of the conference—Game 7 of the Finals to be exact—Khobuntin laid it all on the line and helped TNT outlast Barangay Ginebra, 87-83, in overtime.

“I didn’t even think of anything else. This is Game 7,” said an ecstatic Khobuntin, covered in champagne and sweat on Friday night amid TNT’s title celebration.

READ: PBA: Glenn Khobuntin finds niche and success in TNT

“Whatever I shot out there, I just stood by it, I’ll just head back on defense but I’m just so thankful that those shots went in.”

Khobuntin hit one timely basket after another, emerging as TNT’s unsung hero after recording 14 points and three rebounds to push the Tropang Giga even closer to an elusive Grand Slam feat.

“He’s been struggling for this whole series and before Game 6, I told him to remember who he is and what he brings to the team. I noticed that if he couldn’t shoot, it affects the other parts of his game,” said a proud TNT coach Chot Reyes.

“His scoring is just a bonus, his real contribution is his defense and his rebound. When he focused on the important things and his real strength, his scoring followed. Tonight, without Roger (Pogoy) there and a hobbled Rondae (Hollis-Jefferson), his points were invaluable,” he added.