PBA Finals: Tim Cone hits back at ‘unfair’ officiating narrative
Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone during a game vs TNT Tropang 5G in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals. –PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone said he is growing tired of what he believes is an “unfair” narrative surrounding the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals.
After the Gin Kings’ 98-90 loss to TNT in Game 6 on Sunday, Cone pushed back against the notion that Ginebra wins because of favorable officiating while the Tropang 5G prevail because of coaching and execution.
TIM CONE ANSWERS BACK
WATCH: Ginebra coach Tim Cone says he’s “getting tired” of the officiating narrative in the #PBAFinals.
“I think it’s unfair… It’s referees for us and great coaching and players for them,” he says. | @MeloFuertesINQ pic.twitter.com/uX7cl6CVw2
— INQUIRER Sports (@inquirersports) June 14, 2026
“I’m just getting real tired of the idea that when we win it’s always because we got favored by the referees but when they win it’s always because of good coaching and great plays,” Cone said.
“It’s a narrative that’s getting really old, and it’s starting to bother me a little bit. I think it’s unfair.”
Coincidentally, TNT coach Chot Reyes repeatedly pointed to the officiating after the Tropang 5G’s losses in Games 3 and 5.
“Excellent officiating,” Reyes said sarcastically after both defeats.
TNT Tropang 5G coach Chot Reyes during a game vs Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals. –PBA IMAGES
Cone, however, didn’t name names or directly call out Reyes.
“It’s just gotten to a point where it’s crazy. It’s referees for us and great coaching and play for them,” he said.
Instead, Cone pointed to the performances that ultimately decided Game 6 and forced a winner-take-all Game 7.
“McCullough was awesome tonight. We challenged him from the outside and made big shots from the outside, which broke our backs,” Cone said.
Cone also noted the struggles of two of Ginebra’s key contributors.
“Scottie (Thompson) and RJ (Abarrientos) were 2-for-18 from the field today, that’s not something you see often.”
With the series tied at 3-3, Ginebra and TNT head to a winner-take-all Game 7 on Wednesday at Mall of Asia Arena.
