TNT raced off to a hot start, then hung tough in the end to secure the Game 1 win over San Miguel in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup Finals.
TNT came out with guns blazing then fended off a late assault by San Miguel, 99-96, to take Game 1 of the best-of-seven PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup Finals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao Sunday, July 13.
The Tropang 5G unloaded nine triples and three four-pointers to establish a comfortable 61-41 lead at the break.
They looked to run away with the win after posting leads of as many as 24 points, 67-43, until the Beermen mounted a comeback in the fourth for the down-to-the-wire finish that went TNT's way.
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RR Pogoy returned like he never left to help the Tropang 5G move one step closer to completing a rare Grand Slam.
TNT will aim to sustain its momentum against the Beermen, who are eager to draw level in Game 2, on Wednesday, July 16, at the same venue.
Tipoff is at 7:30 p.m.