Oftana, TNT look to bounce back, seize momentum anew against SMB in Game 3 of PBA Finals

TNT braces for another battle of resolve as it looks to bounce back and reclaim the series lead against San Miguel in Game 3 of the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup Finals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao Friday, July 18.

Match unfurls at 7:30 p.m.

The series is tied at 1-1 after the Tropang 5G fell short in Game 2, 92-98, despite strong individual performances from Calvin Oftana and Jordan Heading.

Oftana finished with 23 points and seven rebounds, while Heading chipped in 15 points, two assists, two rebounds and a steal — but their efforts were not enough to match the Beermen’s late-game surge.

[RELATED STORY: TNT's Oftana on scoreless spell in 4Q of Game 2: 'I tried to help pero parang napasama pa']

TNT also faces an injury concern with Poy Erram listed as doubtful after spraining his right ankle early in the third quarter. The absence of the veteran big man could deal a blow to the Tropang 5G’s interior defense and rotation.

Still, TNT has shown time and again this season that adversity brings out the best in them.

Whether it’s recovering from double-digit deficits or battling through injuries, Chot Reyes’ squad has thrived with grit.

San Miguel, meanwhile, is riding a wave of confidence after a balanced team performance in its rebound victory.

Don Trollano led the Beermen with 22 points, including 12 in the fourth quarter where they pulled away. June Mar Fajardo added 17 points and nine boards, while Mo Tautuaa provided steady support with 16 points.

[RELATED STORY: Mo Tautuaa weighs in on dunking in the future: 'I think I'm done trying']

For TNT, Friday’s clash is about rediscovering the poise that won them Game 1 — and proving once again that it can respond when the stakes are highest.

(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)

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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]