MANILA, Philippines — After failing to convert a potential game-winning shot against Ginebra’s tight defense, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson lay on the floor for a few extra seconds, processing the missed opportunity that could have given TNT a 2-0 lead in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals.
Instead, the 70-71 loss allowed Ginebra to even the series at 1-1.
TNT Stands by Hollis-Jefferson
As Hollis-Jefferson absorbed the moment, his TNT teammates surrounded him, offering support and reassurance despite the tough defeat.
“Sabi ko nga sa dugout ‘live and die’ kami kay RHJ,” said RR Pogoy, expressing the team’s unwavering trust in their two-time Best Import, who has played a crucial role in their past Governors’ Cup title runs.
Final Possessions and Missed Opportunities
With TNT holding a three-point lead, Ginebra stormed back behind Justin Brownlee’s four-point sequence, shifting the advantage to the Gin Kings.
The Tropang Giga then placed the ball in the hands of Hollis-Jefferson, their go-to scorer in clutch situations. However, Ginebra’s defensive pressure disrupted the play.
With 32.5 seconds left, Stephen Holt and Scottie Thompson double-teamed Hollis-Jefferson, preventing him from getting off a clean shot before the buzzer.
TNT regained possession when Calvin Oftana intercepted a pass, setting up a final offensive play with 7.3 seconds remaining. Pogoy inbounded to Hollis-Jefferson, who tried to create space but faced relentless defense from Thompson and Holt. Forced into a tough, off-balanced jumper, his shot fell short as time expired.
Hollis-Jefferson Takes Responsibility
After the game, Hollis-Jefferson vowed to learn from the experience and improve in late-game situations.
“I’ll probably watch that shot 20 times. You know, the last two or three possessions I didn’t even get a shot on. That’s on me,” he admitted.
“I mean, that’s something I want to get better at, learn from it, grow from it. I’ll watch it. I’m not afraid to see where I messed up, where I made a mistake.”
With the series now tied, TNT and Ginebra will look to gain the upper hand in Game 3, where Hollis-Jefferson will have a chance to bounce back.
