A simple request by Jolas made the difference.
The TNT Tropang Giga grabbed another win in three nights after overpowering the Blackwater Bossing, 105-96, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
It was neck-and-neck between the two squads in the first half. However, TNT seemingly found their groove at the start of the third quarter and never looked back.
The Tropang Giga, despite playing on Wednesday in a come-from-behind win over the NLEX Road Warriors, had enough energy to put off the struggling Bossing.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson had another monster game for TNT as he finished with 42 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists.
But aside from RHJ, other members of the Tropang Giga stepped up and provided timely baskets in the victory.
Jayson Castro finished with 18 points, three rebounds, and five assists. Calvin Oftana added 14 points while Kib Montalbo and Glenn Khobuntin added 10 markers a piece.
“We talked about it a lot about guys being ready, being locked, being able to put the ball in the basket, and they came today ready to do that, came today focused,” Hollis-Jefferson said during the post-game press conference. “This game was even shared, so if that's what it's gonna take to win, I'm sure the guys are ready, willing, and able to do that.”
Lastimosa, meanwhile, lauded the team’s response in the second half after making a request during the half-time break.
“We were showing that we were coming from a game the other night and it showed in our body language and I didn't want them to show that at the start of the third (quarter),” said Lastimosa.
“Even if they have to fake it, I don't care as long as they don't show that they're tired because these guys are tired,” he added.
The call seemingly worked to perfection as the Tropang Giga outscored the Bossing by 16 points in the third frame.
“They stuck to it and we defended well in the third quarter and it was crucial and the guys were working ward, they were talking and then made some stops (and) before you know it, the lead was in double digits,” said Lastimosa.
TNT will look to continue their winning way amid their busy schedule as they go up against the San Miguel Beermen on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
Blackwater, meanwhile, will look to keep its playoff hopes alive as they take on the NLEX Road Warriors on Friday, December 22 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
(CF)