MVP consoles TNT after failed PBA Grand Slam bid: 'Nakalulungkot... pero hindi nakahihiya'

“Nakalulungkot, nakaiiyak pero hindi nakahihiya.”

That was how team owner Manny V. Pangilinan consoled TNT after ceding the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup trophy to San Miguel Wednesday night, July 25.

Though the Tropang 5G fell short of a Grand Slam, Pangilinan still could not help but be proud of his squad after winning the first two championships of the season and reaching the Finals of the all-Filipino conference.

[ALSO READ: Perez, Cruz share spotlight as SMB finally sees off TNT in Game 6 for PBA Philippine Cup title]

All that while dealing with injuries to key players like Jayson Castro, Rey Nambatac, Poy Erram, RR Pogoy and Calvin Oftana to name a few.

[ALSO READ: Winning a PBA Grand Slam? Pingris, Barroca, Reavis recall San Mig Coffee’s 2014 feat]

TNT head coach Chot Reyes echoed his boss’ sentiments.

“MVP said it best: ‘Our heads are bowed in sorrow but not in shame.' So proud of our team, but, in the end, you’ve got to tip your cap to the other. Congrats, SMB!” said Reyes in an Instagram story.

TNT star Calvin Oftana hugs Finals Most Valuable Player Jericho Cruz of San Miguel. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports

When the Tropang 5G received the runner-up trophy, they all looked like winners.

They held their heads high and wore smiles, knowing they put up a gallant stand against a healthy, complete and powerhouse San Miguel team.

Best Player of the Conference June Mar Fajardo had nothing but respect for SMB's resilient foes, who pushed them to their limits even with a wounded roster.

He also wished the injured TNT cagers a speedy recovery.

[ALSO READ: June Mar Fajardo reignites ultimate PBA dream: winning a Grand Slam with San Miguel Beer]

“Hindi natin puwedeng balewalain 'yong TNT. Back-to-back champion 'yon. Ang goal nila, maka-Grand Slam. Hindi mo sila puwedeng i-underestimate kasi experienced na rin sila,” Fajardo said.

“Sana maka-recover na 'yong players na may injury.”