Ginebra's Stephen Holt did a great job limiting Arvin Tolentino in the PBA semis, a task he is now expected to do against TNT's Calvin Oftana in the Finals.
Stephen Holt has proven himself an asset for Ginebra on the defensive end, and he is expected to take the same major role again when the Gin Kings take on TNT in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup Finals.
After helping shut down Best Player of the Conference candidate Arvin Tolentino of top-seeded NorthPort in the semifinals, it appears Holt will be tasked to guard Calvin Oftana.
“It’s going to be a great series. Obviously, [Tropang Giga are] very talented players. We’re working on our game plan and matchups,” said Holt.
With Holt hounding Tolentino most of the way, the Batang Pier ace was reduced to an average player.
In fact, Tolentino was limited to just nine points on 2-for-13 shooting from the field in NorthPort's 99-126 loss to Ginebra in Game 5 in the penultimate round, leading to the Batang Pier's elimination.
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The reigning Rookie of the Year is just ready to take on any task given to him — whether it be guarding Oftana or making it tough for any other player in TNT.
Stephen Holt is taking on another huge role for the Brgy. Ginebra Gin Kings as they collide with the TNT Tropang Giga in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup Finals. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
Oftana is also in the running for the BPC plum.
“I’m looking forward to competing against all the guys over at TNT and, hopefully, we get the job done this time,” Holt said.
Game 1 is slated Friday, March 14, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.