Calvin Oftana and the TNT Tropang 5G celebrate after being the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
Calvin Oftana sent the game into overtime with three clutch free throws before taking the starring role in TNT’s 113-105 win over Rain or Shine for a 2-0 lead in their PBA Philippine Cup semifinal series on Friday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Oftana finished with 39 points, including seven in the extension as the Tropang 5G survived a whirlwind encounter to make it two in a row over the Elasto Painters in the best-of-seven series despite trailing by 18 in the first half and squandering a 14-point lead.
But his heroics wouldn’t be possible if not for his heady play when he was fouled by Gian Mamuyac with seven seconds left in regulation and Rain or Shine up 99-96.
TNT Tropang 5G’s Calvin Oftana during the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals against Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
While Mamuyac had the intention of fouling Oftana with Rain or Shine still not in penalty, replays showed that the TNT star was in the act of shooting which resulted in three foul shots.
In the extra period, Oftana broke a 101-all tie with a three before it was followed by a Kelly Williams triple and a Poy Erram basket for 109-101 as TNT never looked back.
The Tropang 5G can go for a commanding 3-0 lead in Game 3 set Sunday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
TNT also got a huge contribution from Jordan Heading, who, despite playing through a back injury, was able to pick things up in the second half and overtime to end up with 13 points, six rebounds and 11 assists.
The Tropang 5G won despite RR Pogoy never returning due to what coach Chot Reyes described as a groin injury.
Adrian Nocum scored 27 points, but Rain or Shine blew its chance of evening the series.
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.