Do-it-all Hollis-Jefferson lifts TNT to Game 1 win vs Rain or Shine

MANILA, Philippines – Rondae Hollis-Jefferson shone on all fronts as TNT drew first blood against Rain or Shine in the PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals.

Hollis-Jefferson turned in a near triple-double of 26 points, 13 rebounds, and 9 assists in 46 minutes of play in steering the Tropang Giga to a 90-81 win over the Elasto Painters at the PhilSports Arena on Wednesday, October 9.

The reigning Best Import of the Conference also delivered on the defensive end with 5 steals and 4 blocks as TNT put the clamps on Rain or Shine in a battle of teams that topped their respective groups in the elimination round.

Roger Pogoy backstopped Hollis-Jefferson with 16 points and 7 rebounds, while Rey Nambatac torched the Elasto Painters — the team where he spent his first six PBA seasons — by putting up 14 points and 9 rebounds in the win.

Nambatac scattered 11 points in the third quarter as the Tropang Giga turned a 39-43 halftime deficit to a 75-66 lead going into the final frame.

Aaron Fuller put up 18 points and 21 rebounds in the losing effort.

The Scores

TNT 90 – Hollis-Jefferson 26, Pogoy 16, Nambatac 14, Oftana 11, Castro 9, Aurin 6, Erram 5, Khobuntin 3, Galinato 0, Williams 0, Heruela 0.

Rain or Shine 81 – Fuller 18, Mamuyac 14, Asistio 13, Nocum 7, Lemetti 7, Clarito 6, Datu 6, Norwood 5, Santillan 4, Caracut 1, Belga 0.

Quarters : 22-24, 39-43, 75-66, 90-81.

– Rappler.com