Ginebra's escape act

TNT could've raced to a 2-0 lead in the PBA Commissioner's Cup Finals but dropping Game 2 to Barangay Ginebra by a solitary point at the SM Mall of Asia Arena last Sunday was something that coach Chot Reyes wouldn't lose sleep over.

- By JOAQUIN M. HENSON

Reyes' consolation was despite a four-point meltdown in the second quarter; the Tropa stormed back from 15 down to take the driver's seat, 70-67, with 2:31 to go.

But down the stretch, coach Tim Cone went back to basics and delivered a strong statement that Ginebra remains the PBA's top defensive team.

Time was down to 46.9 seconds with Ginebra on top, 71-70 and TNT failed to even make an attempt on two possessions.

After advancing the ball off a timeout, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson couldn't pull the trigger and TNT was slapped a shot-clock violation.

On the next play, Justin Brownlee missed a jumper but Scottie Thompson grabbed the offensive rebound only to throw a bad pass that was intercepted by Calvin Oftana.