TNT Must Face Their Struggles Seriously: No Free Pass to the Playoffs
TNT is finding life without former import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson much tougher than expected in the PBA Philippine Cup, and it’s becoming clear that they need to address their issues — fast.
Shooting guard Roger Pogoy admitted that the Tropang Giga are still adjusting after two conferences heavily reliant on Hollis-Jefferson’s all-around presence.
“Honestly, we came from two conferences with Rondae, so we’re really adjusting,” Pogoy said after TNT absorbed its second straight loss, this time against Converge, 100-94.
Pogoy pointed out how much they miss having Rondae dominate the defensive end and control the boards — something TNT badly needed against the FiberXers, who outrebounded them, 48-38, and outscored them inside the paint, 58-28.
It wasn’t just the rebounding or defense either. TNT once again started poorly, digging themselves into a 22-point hole by the middle of the second quarter. Despite a spirited comeback led by Pogoy, Calvin Oftana, Rey Nambatac, and Poy Erram, the effort ultimately fell short.
“Ang sama ng start namin. Hindi namin makuha yung laro namin,” Pogoy admitted.
While Pogoy had personal reasons for not being at full strength — celebrating the birth of his second child and barely sleeping before the game — the deeper issue is that TNT’s problems are systemic.
This is no longer a league where the top teams can assume they’ll cruise into the playoffs. Recent history offers a clear warning: San Miguel and Magnolia, both proud franchises, failed to even reach the playoffs during the recent Commissioner’s Cup.
If powerhouse teams like those can fall short, TNT is certainly not immune. They will not be handed a free pass based on reputation alone.
If TNT truly wants to chase history with an ambitious grand slam bid this season, they must confront their challenges urgently — particularly their defensive rebounding, slow starts, and overall energy — before it’s too late.
Otherwise, they could be staring at a shocking early exit, just like some of their rivals recently experienced.
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