PBA Trade Rumors: TNT Top 3 Targets to accomplished grandslam!

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Can TNT Win a Grand Slam Without RHJ and Jayson Castro? These 3 Players Could Be the Answer

With the 2025 PBA Philippine Cup looming, TNT now sets its sights on a historic Grand Slam run—a feat only four teams have accomplished in league history. However, they face a huge challenge: winning without import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (RHJ) and potentially without veteran leader Jayson Castro.

RHJ was TNT’s ultimate playmaker and defensive anchor, while Castro has been the team’s heart and soul for over a decade. Without them, TNT must rebuild its backcourt depth and offensive structure to stay competitive in the ultra-physical All-Filipino conference.

Here are the top three players TNT should target to keep their championship dream alive:

#3. Tyler Tio (Phoenix) – The Smart Floor General

A former Ateneo standout, Tyler Tio is an intelligent guard who thrives in structured offensive systems—exactly what TNT needs after losing a high-IQ veteran like Castro.

  • Why He Fits: Tio can play off the ball, making him an ideal complement to high-usage players like Calvin Oftana and RR Pogoy. He is also a reliable three-point shooter who can stretch the floor and provide secondary playmaking.

  • The Challenge: Phoenix has invested in Tio’s development, so prying him away will not be easy. TNT might need to package assets to make this happen.

#2. Deschon Winston (Converge) – The Big, Versatile Guard

If Converge is still interested in Mikey Williams, then TNT should take advantage by targeting Deschon Winston, a 6’4” guard who can score, defend, and play multiple positions.

  • Why He Fits: Winston brings a rare combination of size, scoring, and defense. He could take on the do-it-all role that RHJ had, allowing TNT to maintain their defensive intensity while having a shot creator in the half-court.

  • The Challenge: Winston has yet to fully establish himself in the PBA, so it’s unclear if Converge would be willing to trade him. TNT may have to convince Converge to make a Mikey Williams deal happen to get Winston in return.

#1. Sedrick Barefield (Blackwater) – The Ultra Ball-Handler TNT Needs

Among all the possible targets, Sedrick Barefield is the best option for TNT. Many see him as a younger version of Mikey Williams—an ultra-skilled ball-dominant guard who can take over games offensively.

  • Why He Fits: Barefield is an elite shot creator who thrives in isolation and pick-and-roll situations. With RHJ gone, TNT needs a player who can take over games offensively, and Barefield has the ability to do just that.

  • The Challenge: Blackwater might demand a high price for Barefield, especially now that he is proving to be a legitimate star. But if TNT is serious about its Grand Slam chase, they should go all in on acquiring him.

Can TNT Win the Grand Slam Without RHJ and Jayson Castro?

The answer depends on how they replace RHJ’s all-around impact and Castro’s leadership. TNT still has a strong core in Pogoy, Oftana, Erram, and Khobuntin, but they must add a reliable offensive creator to remain a top contender.

Among the three targets, Barefield provides the best chance for TNT to stay dominant in the All-Filipino Cup. If TNT can acquire him—or at least Winston or Tio—their Grand Slam aspirations remain very much alive. 

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