The TNT Tropang 5G looks to prevail over sister team Meralco Bolts in the best-of-seven semifinals in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup beginning Sunday, Jan. 4.
After failing to complete a triple crown last season, TNT took a respite before returning to action feeling rejuvenated.
The Tropang 5G took care of business right away and primed itself to clinch a playoff ticket at the third spot, which came with a twice-to-beat incentive.
TNT disposed of Magnolia right away in the quarters to grab the second seat in the semis, where it will face sister team Meralco.
[WATCH: PBA LIVESTREAM: Meralco vs TNT | Philippine Cup semis Game 1]
Road to the playoffs
Save for TNT's losses against perennial contenders Ginebra, Rain or Shine and San Miguel, the Tropang 5G cruised past their foes on their way to securing the No. 3 seed in the quarterfinals.
TNT flexed its twice-to-beat advantage against the Hotshots to spoil LA Tenorio’s two games as a playing-coach.
The Tropang 5G showcased their experience against the rookie mentor and his Magnolia squad, running away with a 118-109 victory to set up the semis match against seventh-seeded Meralco.
[RELATED STORY: PBA: TNT 'keeps calm and poise' in semis-clinching win over Magnolia]
Last meeting vs. the Bolts
Rey Nambatac played the hero's role for TNT in its 100-98 overtime win over Meralco last Oct. 29.
Nambatac dropped 18 of his 22 points in the second half, but his best moment came in the extra period, where he sank the game-winning floater with 0.9 ticks left to play.
[RELATED STORY: PBA Semifinals Preview: Ginebra looks to score payback vs San Miguel]
That win sent the Bolts reeling before going on a month-long stint in the East Asia Super League.
TNT looks to repeat against Meralco when their semifinal series begins Sunday, Jan. 4.
Match kicks off at 5:15 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
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Like most sportswriters, Jan Ballesteros once dreamed of becoming a professional hooper. But he learned the hard way that it’s not for everyone.
He continues to be involved in the sport he loves, but this time as a member of the PBA Press Corps. Aside from primarily covering the PBA, he is also assigned to cover Gilas Pilipinas.