PBA Preview: TNT continues title defense in semis showdown with Rain or Shine

The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters are set to challenge the defending champions, TNT Tropang Giga, in a pivotal PBA Season 49 Governors' Cup matchup on October 9, 7:30 p.m., at the PhilSports Arena.

Both teams are riding high after recent victories, with Rain or Shine defeating the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots in Game 5 of the quarterfinals, and TNT cruising past the NLEX Road Warriors in Game 4 of their series.

[READ: Rain or Shine sees off Magnolia in Game 5, enters semis in PBA Season 49 Governors' Cup]

[ALSO READ: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson shows the way as TNT closes out NLEX in Game 4]

TNT has historically held the upper hand against Rain or Shine in playoff meetings, winning 5 of their last 7 encounters.

Moreover, TNT has triumphed in both of their Finals meetings, sweeping the 2012 Philippine Cup Finals and edging out Rain or Shine in a tight 2015 Commissioner's Cup Finals.

Entering the match as group leaders, TNT boasts an 8-2 record at the top of Group A, while Rain or Shine sits first in Group B with a 7-3 slate.

Rain or Shine will look to channel its success from last season's Philippine Cup quarterfinals, where the team upset TNT, hoping for another breakthrough win against the powerhouse squad.

Jhonard Clarito, who recently bagged Player of the Week honors, continues to fuel Rain or Shine’s campaign.

On the other hand, TNT’s strength lies in the consistency of Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, complemented by standout performances from Roger Pogoy and Calvin Oftana.

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With TNT defending its Governors' Cup crown, the Elasto Painters will have their hands full.

Rain or Shine's mission is to overturn its playoff struggles against TNT, while the Tropang Giga aim to maintain their championship form and assert dominance in this crucial series.

[Editor's note: This article was generated by AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]