TNT nips Kia for first win in Govs’ Cup

MANILA, Philippines – Fresh from a finals stint in the previous conference, the TNT KaTropa opened their 2017 PBA Governors’ Cup campaign on a bright note after fending off the Kia Picanto, 106-96, on Friday, July 28 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Down by as much as 17 points, the Picanto recovered at the tail-end of the third quarter and gradually erased the double-digit deficit to start the final frame. 

Following a series of sloppy turnovers, TNT took care of business in the clutch as Troy Rosario completed a 3-point play to stretch the lead back to 11 with over a minute remaining.

To kick off the season-ending tournament, the KaTropa paraded import Michael Craig, who formerly suited up for the University of Southern Mississippi in the NCAA. The Phoenix, Arizona native impressed with a triple-double debut after putting up a team-high 21 points, 13 rebounds, and 12 assists.

Rosario finished with a double-double of his own, logging in 18 points and 10 boards, while Jayson Castro added 16 points on 6-of-7 shooting to go with 4 rebounds and 4 assists.

Markeith Cummings led the way for Kia with a game-high 25 markers coupled with 7 boards, while Reden Celda pitched in 14. 

Kia, which remains winless in 3 outings, will look to break the skid when it takes on Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Wednesday, August 2. 

Fans are in for a Commissioner’s Cup finals rematch treat when the KaTropa and the San Miguel Beermen battle it out also on Wednesday at the Big Dome. – Rappler.com