TNT coach Chot Reyes applauds during Game 1 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals against Ginebra.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—TNT coach Chot Reyes didn’t have the best morning on Friday. Fortunately for him, his night was so much better.
Reyes steered the Tropang Giga to a Game 1 win over Barangay Ginebra in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals at Mall of Asia Arena on Friday night with a smile that spanned from ear-to-ear.
The multi-titled mentor couldn’t help but grin after recalling the forgettable game of golf he just played a few hours before the title series opener.
READ: PBA Finals: Tim Cone, Ginebra ‘tired’ of being outcoached, outplayed
“I played in a golf tournament this morning and I was missing even the shortest putts, it kept blipping out. I told myself, it’s okay if I miss my shots today,” said Reyes in jest after his team’s 95-89 victory.
“As long as my players make their shots tonight. Luckily, that’s what happened. I’ll take that anytime.”
Reyes got rid of all his bad juju from the morning and guided TNT to its fourth straight win over Ginebra dating back to the Governors’ Cup Finals.
The Tropang Giga shot a decent 42 percent clip from the field, including 14 3-pointers doubling the Gin Kings’ output from long range.
TNT also got it done on the other end of the floor with seven steals and four blocks.
READ: PBA Finals: RHJ gives credit to Ginebra for late fightback
“In the end, Like Rondae (Hollis-Jefferson) said, we can play all the defense we want but the game is still about putting the ball in the hoop and scoring points. The key is for us to get good shots,” Reyes said.
“As long as we consistently get good shots, some will fall, some will not but the entire objective of our offense is to get good shots.”
TNT reinforcement Rondae Hollis-Jefferson had his way, collecting 34 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists.
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.
The Tropang Giga shoot for a commanding 2-0 series advantage on Sunday.
