MANILA, Philippines—Roger Pogoy immediately proved his worth for TNT, delivering key numbers in a controversy-filled Game 1 win in the PBA Philippine Cup Finals.

The Tropang 5G’s 99-96 victory may be remembered for its controversial finish, but it also marked the return of Pogoy from a hamstring injury—just in time to help TNT inch closer to a coveted Grand Slam.

HIGHLIGHTS: PBA Philippine Cup Finals Game 1 – TNT vs San Miguel

“We just had our willingness to win,” said the team’s resident shooter at Araneta Coliseum. “We didn’t give up. I think that’s what gave us confidence.”

After being shelved for four games in the semifinals series against Rain or Shine, Pogoy returned to action for TNT off the bench despite not being at a hundred percent.

When the Tropang 5G needed a closer, Pogoy stepped up and finished with 23 points built on three triples and two from the four-point area.

The Far Eastern University’s statement performance pushed TNT one step closer to the grand slam with a 1-0 lead over the Beermen.

Pogoy credited TNT’s late-game poise to the challenges the team has faced throughout the conference–including injuries, sluggish starts, and controveries.

“Even though we knew that we’ve been through a lot, like in the semis, we still have hope. Is now really the time to give up? That’s what was always in our minds.”

Pogoy and the Tropang 5G look to make it back-to-back in the Finals on Wednesday at the same venue.