PBA Finals: TNT vets Jayson Castro, Poy Erram shine in Game 1 win

TNT guard Jayson Castro shoots against Ginebra rookie RJ Abarrientos in Game 1 of the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals.–PBA IMAGES

ANTIPOLO—Not only did TNT show off its defensive prowess against Ginebra in Game 1 of the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals, but the Tropang Giga also flaunted its late-game composure for a headstart in their best-of-seven title series.

Poy Erram and Jayson Castro exhibited their veteran guts to perfection in the 104-88 blowout, much to the delight of coach Chot Reyes.

“That’s why they’re here. They’re veterans and they know what to do in these situations,” said Reyes at Ynares Sports Center here on Sunday.

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“It’s not only the points they scored but the other things they do. I think Poy (Erram) played tremendous defense.”

Erram, who dealt with a string of injuries several months ago, finished with 15 points and four rebounds without missing a single shot in 23 minutes of action.

“He was injured but he never stopped working out so whether it was his leg or his shoulder, he was still in practice most of the time even in our training camp, he was never absent. Mentally, he was never away.”

Castro, on the other hand, did what he usually does for the Tropang Giga, providing timely and heavily contested baskets.

The star guard recorded 14 points, two rebounds and two assists while also hounding Ginebra’s rookie sensation RJ Abarrientos.

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Abarrientos scored just five points on 29 percent from the field with Castro hounding him.

“Their job is to stabilize [the defense], take advantage of the opportunities and Jayson saw opportunities in the third quarter,” said Reyes.

“Very little happens in our games by accidents… We read and react and we look for advantages in the game,” added the veteran tactician further.