The TNT Tropang Giga are playing without Jayson Castro, but the squad would not let that hinder their quest for their 11th title in the PBA.
TNT marches into Game 1 of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup Finals against Brgy. Ginebra, looking to continue its dominance over its rival despite a key absence.
The best-of-seven series kicks off at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 14, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
The Tropang Giga will be without veteran star Jayson Castro, but head coach Chot Reyes remains confident his local core can step up in his place.
[RELATED STORY: PBA Finals: How Tropang Giga can sustain mastery over Gin Kings]
ROGER THAT. RR Pogoy is expected to lead the TNT Tropang Giga alongside the likes of Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Calvin Oftana in Game 1 of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup Finals. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
TNT has had the Gin Kings' number in their recent championship encounters, winning their last two Finals matchups.
But Reyes knows this series will be a different challenge, especially with Ginebra now reinforced by Troy Rosario, Jamie Malonzo and Jeremiah Gray.
[RELATED STORY: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson plans to break Ramadan fast as needed for PBA Finals vs Ginebra]
TNT will rely on its deep roster and tested system to draw first blood.
(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]