TNT marched on to the semifinals of the PBA Governors’ Cup after finishing off Magnolia, 98-87, on Saturday for a sweep of their best-of-five quarters series at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson put up another big performance with 38 points, nine rebounds and three assists as the Tropang 5G delivered the knockout blow on the Hotshots with three convincing victories.
Rey Nambatac had 13 points, five rebounds and five assists while RR Pogoy added 12 and 10 points for TNT.
The Tropang 5G advanced to the semis to face either Barangay Ginebra or the San Miguel Beermen in the semis, also a best-of-five.
The semis will begin in December following Gilas Pilipinas’ campaign in the fifth window of the Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
Import KJ Buffen scored 31 points but the Hotshots saw another disappointing quarterfinal exit despite topping Group B.
Magnolia never got it going in the series, as Hollis-Jefferson showcased the form that made him win three championships and three Best Import awards.
It also ended the rookie season of coach LA Tenorio, who still has a lot of work cut out after being eliminated in the quarters of all three conferences in Season 50.