RR Pogoy and his TNT Tropang Giga teammates then beat the Brgy. Ginebra Gin Kings in Game 6 to force the decider in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup Finals.
A players-only meeting helped TNT restore order after a Game 5 loss to Ginebra that was marred by a heated exchange between head coach Chot Reyes and Poy Erram.
It was held to help the team strengthen their connection, according to RR Pogoy.
“Honestly, noong isang araw, nag-meeting kaming mga players muna… Pinag-usapan naming kailangang magka-connect kami. Walang maghihiwalay sa'min para manalo this [Game 6],” said Pogoy.
[RELATED STORY: Chot Reyes tells Poy Erram before Game 6: 'Just focus, shut off noise']
That worked wonders as the Tropang Giga pulled off an 87-83 win in Game 6 Wednesday, March 26, to force a deciding match against the Gin Kings.
Poy Erram stays focused and helps the TNT Tropang Giga prevail over the Brgy. Ginebra Gin Kings in Game 6 of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup Finals. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
Erram made his presence felt, scoring 10 of his 14 points in the fourth period where the Tropang Giga led by 72-62 before weathering a late Ginebra storm.
Erram also canned the two pressure-packed free throws that gave the team an 85-80 cushion in the final seconds.
[RELATED STORY: Poy Erram shares unsaid words after his father’s passing — One Sports exclusive]
Pogoy was proud of the enigmatic big man.
“Sobrang thankful ako kay Poy kasi nakikinig din siya sa'min. 'Pag sinasabihan naming, nakikinig sya,” Pogoy said.
Now that TNT guns for an 11th championship, Pogoy said that he and his teammates really need to stick together to beat a Ginebra side inspired by Justin Brownlee.
Game 7 is slated Friday, March 28, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.