TNT Takes Game 1 Over Rain or Shine in PBA Semifinals Thriller

The PBA Semifinals Season 49 Commissioner's Cup semifinals kicked off with an electrifying showdown as TNT Tropang Giga edged out Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 88-84, in Game 1 of their best-of-seven series at the Araneta Coliseum.

Led by Jayson Castro’s 24-point outburst, TNT capitalized on Rain or Shine’s costly turnovers down the stretch, taking an early advantage in the series.

TNT's Hot Shooting and Clutch Defense Seals the Win

Despite Rondae Hollis-Jefferson struggling offensively, TNT found firepower in Castro and Calvin Oftana, both knocking down six three-pointers each. Their outside shooting, combined with defensive stops in the final moments, made the difference in the PBA game 1 semis result.

Key Moments in TNT’s Victory

1. Jayson Castro Leads the Charge
   • Castro had 24 points, including six three-pointers, four steals, and three assists.
   • His sharpshooting kept TNT ahead despite Hollis-Jefferson's struggles.
2. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson’s Impact
   • Though he shot below 30%, the Governors’ Cup Best Import still posted 23 points and made a crucial defensive play in the final seconds.
3. Clutch Defense Down the Stretch
   • With 17 seconds left, Hollis-Jefferson stripped the ball from Rain or Shine import Deon Thompson, preventing a potential game-tying shot.
   • RR Pogoy sealed the deal with a last-second steal, stopping Rain or Shine from executing a four-point play attempt.

Rain or Shine’s Strong Start Fades Late

The Elasto Painters controlled the early game, finishing the first quarter ahead 28-22. However, turnovers and TNT’s perimeter shooting slowly chipped away at their lead.

• Deon Thompson led Rain or Shine with 29 points and 16 rebounds, but his seven turnovers proved costly.
• Adrian Nocum contributed 18 points and 11 rebounds, delivering a solid performance for Yeng Guiao’s squad.

Despite a strong effort, Rain or Shine faltered in the closing minutes, allowing TNT to capitalize and snatch the win.

TNT’s Strategy: Adjustments That Worked

Coach Chot Reyes credited the team’s resiliency and shot-making for overcoming Rain or Shine’s defense.

“Rondae shot really poorly, so it was important for other guys to step up,” Reyes said postgame. “Jayson and Calvin were the ones who provided that firepower coming off the bench.”

Why TNT Won Game 1

Three-Point Accuracy: 14-of-34 from beyond the arc, including Castro and Oftana’s combined 12 triples.
Defensive Execution: Forced critical turnovers in the final seconds.
Bench Contributions: Castro and Oftana’s combined 46 points made up for Hollis-Jefferson’s off night.

PBA Semifinals Game 1: TNT vs. Rain or Shine – Ending Bet Results

In the thrilling Game 1 of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup semifinals, the TNT Tropang Giga edged out the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters with a final score of 88-84. For enthusiasts participating in the traditional "ending bet," where the last digits of each team's final score determine the winning combination, the result for this matchup is 8-4.

Understanding the Ending Bet:

The "ending bet" is a popular informal betting practice among PBA fans. Participants wager on the last digit of each team's final score. In this case, with TNT scoring 88 points and Rain or Shine scoring 84, the winning combination is 8 (from 88) and 4 (from 84).

Read How to Win in PBA Ending

What’s Next? Game 2 Preview

The best-of-seven series continues with Game 2 on Friday, February 28, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City. Rain or Shine must adjust quickly if they hope to even the series.

Key Factors for Game 2

• Can Hollis-Jefferson bounce back? TNT’s import needs a better shooting night.
• Will Rain or Shine take better care of the ball? Turnovers cost them Game 1.
• Defensive matchups: Can Yeng Guiao find a way to slow down Castro and Oftana’s perimeter shooting?

PBA Result Today: TNT vs. Rain or Shine Game 1 Summary

FAQs

1. Who won Game 1 of the PBA Semifinals between TNT and Rain or Shine?

TNT Tropang Giga won Game 1 of the PBA semifinals against Rain or Shine, 88-84.

2. Who was the best player in TNT’s Game 1 victory?

Jayson Castro led the team with 24 points, shooting 6-of-7 from three-point range and adding four steals.

3. When is Game 2 of the TNT vs. Rain or Shine semifinals?

Game 2 is scheduled for Friday, February 28, at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

4. What was the key turning point in Game 1?

TNT’s defensive stops in the final seconds, including Hollis-Jefferson’s steal on Thompson and Pogoy’s last-second interception, sealed the victory.

5. What are TNT’s strengths in this series?

TNT’s three-point shooting, defensive execution, and bench depth give them a strong advantage.

6. What does Rain or Shine need to improve in Game 2?

They need to limit turnovers, adjust defensively, and get better shot selection in crunch time.

7. What is TNT vs Rain or Shine Ending Result?

TNT scoring 88 points and Rain or Shine scoring 84, the winning combination is 8 (from 88) and 4 (from 84). The Pba ending result is 8-4.

PBA Semis Is Upcoming with an Exciting Matches Bet Now with OKbet!

TNT takes first blood in the PBA semis, but Rain or Shine has a chance to bounce back in Game 2. Will the Elasto Painters respond, or will TNT take full control? Stay tuned for more PBA game results and analysis!

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