PBA: Magnolia neutralizes TNT locals despite Bol Bol explosion

TNT Tropang 5G’s Bol Bol during a game against Magnolia Hotshots in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Magnolia coach LA Tenorio knew TNT import Bol Bol would have his way against the Hotshots in their PBA Commissioner’s Cup clash at Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Tuesday.

So instead, Tenorio and company turned their attention to the Tropang 5G locals en route to a crucial 106-94 win.

“The most dangerous part of this TNT team is not because of their import. Bol is a big part of it, of course, but I have so much respect for their locals,” said Tenorio. “It’s been their locals that were giving other teams their problems.”

“We really decided to let Bol do his thing. He’s a legit NBA guy, a tall guy. Even if we deny him, we can’t deny him. We decided to let him do his things and we’ll focus on the locals.”

The Hotshots’ defensive scheme worked to perfection, as Calvin Oftana became the only local to reach double digits. He finished with 18 points.

TNT’s shooters struggled to find rhythm throughout the game. Jayson Castro finished with just five points on 1-of-4 shooting, while Roger Pogoy was limited to four points on 2-of-7 shooting.

Jordan Heading, one of the Tropang 5G’s main perimeter threats, was held scoreless.

Of course, there was the trade-off. Bol dominated in every facet of the game with a stellar double-double of 53 markers and 13 rebounds. His efforts, though, weren’t enough to bolster TNT’s playoff hopes as it dropped to an identical 6-5 card.