TNT has its fingers crossed that Troy Rosario will soon break out of his offensive slump as it figures in a do-or-die duel against Phoenix for a spot in the PBA Philippine Cup finals.

Rosario has been struggling in the best-of-five semifinals series, averaging 7.3 points on a poor 27% shooting from the field.

The usually sweet-shooting forward shot below 30% in Games 1 and 2 and hit a low after going 0-of-6 in Game 4, where he scored zero points despite being a starter.

Rosario, though, compensates for his shooting woes with his work on the glass as he norms 8.5 rebounds.

“We’re doing everything to help Troy, especially from the start he has been struggling,” said TNT head coach Bong Ravena in Filipino.

“But we still believe in Troy, in how he can contribute to the team, and we’re still hoping he will still step up.”

There is no better time for Rosario to rise to the occasion than the knockout game against Phoenix, with TNT living to fight another day after a pulsating 102-101 victory in Game 4.

Also expected to have a big performance is Poy Erram, who saw action for just 14 minutes in Game 4 as Jay Washington saw his playing time extended at the center spot.

“We still believe in Poy and Troy. We know that their usual play will eventually come out,” Ravena said.

“We’re not giving up on them. They are still part of the rotation. We’re hoping that they will play well.”

TNT and Phoenix tangle for the last time this conference on Friday, November 27. – Rappler.com