RHJ loves TNT, but an NBA return remains the goal
With their PBA Commissioner's Cup and EASL campaign over, the TNT Tropang Giga are set to part ways with brothers Rondae and Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson, for the mean time at least.
Despite their combined efforts, TNT was unable to keep their EASL hopes alive after bowing to Anyang Jung Kwan Jang Red Boosters Wednesday at PhilSports.
[Related: TNT bows to Abando-less Anyang, eliminated from Final Four contention]
With some time before the next import-laden conference in the PBA, the Hollis-Jeffersons are now essentially free to play in other leagues.
But when PBA Season 49 comes, will TNT call up Rondae or Rahlir once more? Despite a challenging Commissioner's Cup, the Tropang Giga are the reigning Governors' Cup champions, with Rondae the reigning Best Import in that particular conference.
"Of course, whenever the opportunity to work with either Hollis-Jefferson sibling comes about then we will definitely grab that opportunity. They'll definitely be top of the list," assistant coach Josh Reyes said as TNT wrapped up its EASL run.
If said opportunity is in the PBA, TNT can only pick one sibling and so Rondae posed a conundrum for his coach.
"Which Hollis-Jefferson?" Rondae asked.
Coach Josh's answer?
"RHJ."
But in all seriousness, Rondae welcomes a possible return to TNT. However, his sole focus now is on one thing: make it back to the NBA.
"I don't know what the future holds. I definitely love to play back in the NBA, that's my number one goal," said Hollis-Jefferson, whose last stint in the Association was with Portland in the 2020-21 season.
"But definitely, if the opportunity presents itself and they want me to come back [to TNT] and things align, I'll be here. I love these guys," RHJ added.