I did not imagine that our finals match-up will be TNT versus Phoenix. San Miguel, Columbian and Ginebra were all consistent and powerful during the elimination round that it was easy to predict that at least one of them will reach the finals.
They failed. Phoenix managed to come-from-behind against Magnolia. And then demolished NLEX Road Warriors who upset San Miguel.
On the other hand, TNT was dominant in terms of scoring in the playoffs. So, they managed to defeat two powerhouse teams in Ginebra and Columbian.
How about a quick look on the three primary facets of basketball?
Scoring
TNT will have this as their advantage. In the playoffs, they averaged 107.2 points in a very good 47.3% efficiency. It is a balanced attack with six players averaging more than 12 points per game. Their offense is helping a lot by knocking down the most number of threes per game.
On the other hand, Phoenix is barely on the top 4 in terms of scoring during this playoffs. They are worse during the eliminations because they were at the 10th spot. Jeron Teng could be their key because he is struggling in the playoffs, shooting 37% from the field.
Offense
Spacing is a critical area of the offense. TNT is better at that as they are the #1 teams in terms of three-pointers made. Actually, they only have a single player who is not attempting from beyond the arc.
On the other hand, Phoenix has capable playmakers in Scottie Thompson, Gabe Norwood and Jeron Teng. But their spacing is really bad. They are currently averaging the 2nd least turnovers per game but the #1 is TNT.
So, I think TNT still has an advantage in this area.
Defense
This is the area where Phoenix was clearly better. They forced the 2nd least amount of points per game in the playoffs. They anchored that by forcing the 2nd most number of turnovers and the 2nd lowest assists per game.
On the other hand, TNT averaged the 2nd highest blocks per game. They are also 3rd in terms of three-pointers made per game. Other than that, their defense is not that much to brag about.
Other than defending the opponent, Phoenix is also magnificent in the rebounding department. That will come on handy against an athletic team in TNT.
Overall
Yes, this will be a battle offense versus defense. If Phoenix' defense can be sustained, TNT will be having a hard time. If TNT managed to keep their hot scoring, they will surely win this series.
THE GAME
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