TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa lamented the suspension of a referee after Game 5 of the PBA 50th Season Philippine Cup semifinals somewhat overshadowed the Tropang 5G’s ‘never quit’ attitude that led to the come-from-behind win over Meralco on Wednesday and a place in the finals.
Referee Jeff Tantay was suspended by the PBA Commissioner’s Office after failing to call a foul on Calvin Oftana when he attempted to block CJ Cansino as he drove to the basket for a potential game-winner.
READ PBA ref suspended for failing to call Oftana foul on Cansino
PBA commissioner Willie Marcial said the non-call was among the issues that left Meralco team governor Bill Pamintuan fuming after the game that TNT won, 99-96.
Lastimosa, however, thought otherwise, based on a photo of the supposed foul by Oftana on Cansino.
“To put the blame on the refs for blowing a five-point lead takes the beauty away from our clutch shooting and never quit attitude,” said Lastimosa on Friday.
“Looking at the pictures on the block, they were complaining about Calvin’s hand being on the ball where Cansino’s fingers were. That’s very marginal and considered as part of the ball.”
Down 96-91, TNT made a comeback starting with Rey Nambatac making a four-point shot which was followed by a steal and lay-up by Jordan Heading off Cansino – all in a span of just eight seconds. The Tropang 5G held on to finish off the Bolts, 4-1.
Lastimosa admitted TNT was already prepared for a Game 6 until the players showed their desire to still win the match.
“We were ready to play on Friday before the ‘miracle’ happened. Blaming others for losing games isn’t gonna cut it,” said Lastimosa.
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