TNT overwhelms San Miguel behind Bol’s 34-point explosion

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TNT flipped the script in emphatic fashion, dismantling San Miguel Beer with a commanding 118-92 victory in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Saturday, March 28 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

What was expected to be a tight rivalry clash quickly turned lopsided, as the Tropang 5G imposed their will from the opening minutes and never looked back. The win pushed TNT above the .500 mark after a shaky start to the conference.

June Mar Fajardo of San Miguel battles against Bol Manute Bol of TNT during their March 28, 2026 matchup. TNT won, 118-92. [Peter Baltazar photos]

At the center of it all was Bol Manute Bol, who delivered a dominant all-around performance that overwhelmed one of the league’s most formidable frontcourts.

TNT blows game open early with explosive run

Instead of easing into a grind-out battle, TNT came out firing and seized control with a stunning early barrage. A massive scoring run, fueled by perimeter shooting and relentless pace, immediately created separation and shifted momentum beyond recovery.

Bol set the tone by stretching the floor and attacking inside, forcing San Miguel’s defense into difficult adjustments. The Tropang 5G capitalized, turning the matchup into a one-sided contest far earlier than expected.

Even with San Miguel’s attempts to respond behind Marcus Lee and June Mar Fajardo, TNT’s control never wavered. Every push was met with composure and timely execution, keeping the Beermen at a distance throughout the night.

Bol anchors balanced TNT attack

Bol finished with 34 points and 18 rebounds, anchoring TNT’s dominance on both ends while continuing to find his rhythm with the team. His ability to adapt to the physical style of play and involve his teammates has begun to show in back-to-back victories.

Calvin Oftana provided strong support with 18 points, while Brandon Rosser and Justin Chua added 13 and 11, respectively. The depth around Bol ensured TNT maintained its intensity even as rotations shifted.

San Miguel, now at 1-2, leaned on Marcus Lee’s 30-point, 14-rebound effort and June Mar Fajardo’s 15-point, 20-rebound outing, but struggled to match TNT’s energy and efficiency.

With momentum building, TNT appears to be settling into form, turning early struggles into a more cohesive and dangerous campaign in the Commissioner’s Cup.