TNT halts Blackwater’s streak with Ray Allen in attendance

MANILA, Philippines – The TNT KaTropa spoiled the Blackwater Elite’s attempt to extend their franchise-best winning streak further with a lopsided victory, 117-96, in the 2017 PBA Governors’ Cup on Wednesday, August 30 at the Mall of Asia Arena. 

The game was witnessed by NBA veteran Ray Allen, who was in attendance at courtside. The two-time NBA champion also had a chance to reconnect with the Elite’s import Henry Walker, whom he played with during his stint with the Boston Celtics.

Keeping in mind that Blackwater was in the midst of a franchise-best 3-game winning streak, the KaTropa wasted no time in locking in defensively, and they cruised to a comfortable 22-point lead at the half. 

The Elite, who had been undefeated since Walker marched in, were unable to spark a rally down the stretch as TNT likewise displayed balanced offensive output throughout. 

Walker finished with a game-high 33 points and 18 rebounds for Blackwater, shooting only 10-of-26 from the field. JP Erram added a double-double of his own with 18 markers and 13 boards. 

Glen Rice Jr delivered a team-high 31 points to go with 6 rebounds, 7 steals and 4 assists for TNT. He got ample support from Kelly Williams, who pitched in 21 points on 9-of-13 shooting off the bench.

The KaTropa were at full force in the match as Jayson Castro, RR Pogoy, and Troy Rosario suited up for action after their respective Gilas Pilipinas duties in the FIBA Asia Cup and the Southeast Asian Games. 

TNT has now won two straight games to register a 4-2 record, while Blackwater meanwhile slips to 3-4. 

Scores:

TNT (117) – Rice Jr. 31, Williams 21, Castro 11, Lingganay 10, Tautuaa 9, Reyes 8, Pogoy 8, De Ocampo 7, Carey 6, Rosario 3, Semerad 3, Golla 0, Nuyles 0, Hernandez 0. 

Blackwater (96) – Walker 33, Erram 18, Digregorio 12, Sumang 8, Belo 7, Canaleta 6, Cruz 4, Pinto 4, Gamalinda 2, Pascual 2, Miranda 0, Sena 0. 

Quarter scores: 28-25, 62-40, 92-71, 117-96. – Rappler.com