MANILA, Philippines — Taking a commanding 2-0 lead, TNT cruised to a 91-73 victory over Magnolia on Wednesday, October 28, putting the defending champions just one win away from returning to the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup semifinals.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson delivered a dominant performance, anchoring a pivotal 20-4 surge in the third quarter that blew the game wide open. The explosive import, steadily regaining his rhythm following a long absence due to an Achilles injury, erupted for 39 points, 15 rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks.
Though Magnolia trimmed the deficit to just two points at 51-49 early in the third period after a first-half double-digit deficit, TNT quickly slammed the door shut.
The Tropang 5G responded with their massive run to establish a comfortable 71-53 advantage and maintained control until the final buzzer.
Continuing their suffocating defensive display from the series opener—where they held Magnolia to 60 points—TNT restricted the Hotshots to a dismal 33.8% shooting clip from the field, lower than their 37% mark in Game 1.
Supporting Hollis-Jefferson on offense were Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser and RR Pogoy, who chipped in 12 and 11 points, respectively. Meanwhile, Magnolia’s efforts were led by KJ Buffen with 24 points and 13 rebounds, alongside Zav Lucero’s 16 points, though their contributions ultimately fell short.
TNT will have a chance to complete a series sweep on Saturday, October 31, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.