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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Basketball devider TNT collides with Tenorio-led Magnolia; Ginebra to boost quarters bid

TNT collides with Tenorio-led Magnolia; Ginebra to boost quarters bid

Published Dec 20, 2025 02:58 pm

At A Glance

  • TNT aims for an early holiday treat by defending its No. 3 spot against Magnolia, while Barangay Ginebra looks to strengthen its quarterfinals bonus bid in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, Dec. 21.
(PBA Images)
(PBA Images)
Games Sunday
(Smart Araneta Coliseum)
5:15 p.m. – TNT vs Magnolia
7:30 p.m. – Ginebra vs Titan Ultra
TNT aims for an early holiday treat by defending its No. 3 spot against Magnolia, while Barangay Ginebra looks to strengthen its quarterfinals bonus bid in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, Dec. 21.
Currently sitting in third place behind twice-to-beat card holders San Miguel Beermen (9-2) and Rain or Shine Elasto Painters (8-3), the Tropang 5G go for a three-game winning streak in their 5:15 p.m. tussle with the Hotshots, who will be led by playing coach LA Tenorio.
Tenorio was activated by Magnolia to replace guard Paul Lee, who suffered a left hamstring strain in their 101–92 loss to Rain or Shine in Bahrain last Monday, Dec. 15.
The Gin Kings (6-4) and the Titan Ultra Giant Risers (4-6) tangle at 7:30 p.m.
So far, two incentives remain up for grabs, and TNT, Converge (7-4), Magnolia and Ginebra are still in contention for a Top Four seat.
If the Tropang 5G prevail over the Hotshots, they will secure the quarterfinals bonus, while Magnolia will be eliminated from contention for the incentive. This would leave the last quarters advantage to be claimed by either Converge or Ginebra.
Fresh off a 113–96 win over Blackwater last Friday, TNT is laser-focused on its defense, particularly in its matchup against Magnolia, which could help solidify its current position.
“We knew we have to win our last two games… that’s why we’re full focus on being able to play defense, because we know for Sunday that our defense will be tested, battling a very talented, deep, and well-coached Magnolia team,” said TNT head coach Chot Reyes.
Calvin Oftana, who dropped 25 points on a 6-of-10 three-point shooting against the Bossing, is expected to lead the Tropang 5G anew alongside Roger Pogoy, Henry Galinato, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, and Jordan Heading.
Magnolia, on the other hand, tries to regain its winning form with Tenorio leading the way along with Ian Sangalang, Mark Barocca, Juan Gomez de Liaño, and Zavier Lucero.
Meanwhile, Ginebra, which is riding a four-game winning streak, hopes to spoil Titan Ultra's hope of closing its campaign this conference on a high note.
Fueled by a 102-100 escape over the Painters, the Gin Kings, powered by RJ Abarrientos, Scottie Thompson, and Troy Rosario, are out to conjure their magic at the Big Dome.
The Giant Risers, for their run, rely on the brilliance of veteran Calvin Abueva, Joshua Munzon, Aris Dionisio, Jerrick Balanza, and Fran Yu.
 
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