TNT kept pace with NLEX in the lead of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup following a dramatic comeback from 23 points down to secure a 100-98 overtime win over Meralco on Wednesday night, October 29.

A lively crowd at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo watched as the Tropang 5G executed a furious chase, highlighted by Rey Nambatac’s heroics. Nambatac scored the decisive basket with seven-tenths of a second left in overtime to seal the victory.

The former Letran star finished with 22 points, while Calvin Oftana led TNT with 24 markers. Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser (14), RR Pogoy (14), and Jio Jalalon (10) all contributed in double digits, helping the team stretch its winning streak to three and match NLEX’s 4-1 record.

Earlier, NLEX had secured its own third straight win, defeating the Blackwater Bossing 99-88.

TNT’s comeback sparks excitement

The Tropang 5G looked headed for a second loss after an early shooting slump left them down 28-48 at halftime. They remained behind by 10 points after the third quarter but refused to fold. TNT surged ahead 90-87 in the closing minute of regulation, fueled by back-to-back four-pointers from Chris Newsome.

Meralco scrambled to force overtime with a three-pointer from Newsome, tying the game at 90-90. The extra period turned into a tense duel, with Nambatac ultimately delivering the game-winner.

Standings implications and team performances

With the win, TNT now shares the top of the standings with NLEX at 4-1, while Meralco fell to 3-4. The Bolts’ hopes ended on a missed three-point attempt from Cliff Hodge as the clock expired.

The victory underscores TNT’s resilience and highlights Nambatac’s clutch performance, which kept the Tropang 5G firmly in the hunt for the Philippine Cup title.