Bol Manute Bol exploded for a game-high 37 points as TNT escaped with a 94-89 victory over Meralco on Wednesday, May 20, in Game 1 of their PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals series at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The TNT import scored 22 points in the first half before delivering crucial baskets late in the fourth quarter to preserve the win.

Bol also tallied 11 rebounds, eight assists, and six blocks for the Tropang 5G, who improved to 4-0 at the Antipolo venue this conference. Roger Pogoy added 21 points and nine rebounds, while Jordan Heading scored 16 points and Calvin Oftana finished with 14 points and 11 rebounds.

Head coach Chot Reyes credited TNT’s effort and defense after the game, particularly in matching Meralco’s energy throughout the contest. Reyes stressed that hustle plays and defensive intensity were key parts of their game plan entering the semifinal opener.

TNT survives rally

“The foundation of our gameplan is not to allow Meralco to outwork us and to win the efforts stats. So, diving on the floor for the loose ball, deflections, setting good screens – all the little things Meralco is good at,” Reyes said after the game.

Reyes also praised Heading for stepping up offensively as Meralco focused its defense on Oftana through Chris Newsome and Cliff Hodge. He added that additional scoring from players outside of Pogoy and Oftana helped TNT maintain offensive rhythm.

TNT appeared headed for a comfortable victory after Bol, Oftana, and Heading fueled a 19-4 run that gave the Tropang 5G an 88-77 advantage in the fourth quarter. Meralco, however, responded with a 10-2 run capped by Bong Quinto’s second four-point shot of the game to trim the deficit to 92-89 with 56 seconds left.

Bol closes it out

Bol answered with a strong drive to the basket 10 seconds later for what proved to be the final score as the Bolts failed to convert on their final offensive possessions.

Despite missing his first seven shots, Marvin Jones still led Meralco with 22 points and 14 rebounds. Quinto added 17 points, while CJ Cansino scored 12 markers and Newsome contributed 11 points.

Game 2 of the semifinal series is scheduled for Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena.