BEFORE hitting the game-winning three-pointer for TNT in Game 3 of the PBA 50th Season Commissioner’s Cup, Roger Pogoy wasn’t particularly having the best of games for the Tropang 5G.
With Meralco zeroing on Pogoy defensively, coach Chot Reyes had to look for other options on offense. So he turned to Rey Nambatac.
“The defensive adjustment of Meralco really shut down Roger. We said we needed another scorer and if Roger’s offense isn’t there then wala na nga kaming Bol [Bol]..." Reyes explained after the Tropang 5G's 77-75 win over the Bolts on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
"So we gave Rey some opportunities, we ran some sets for him to get going downhill and attack.”
READ: Pogoy's clutch trey lifts import-less TNT to stunner over Meralco
Nambatac responded to his coach’s call, leading an all-Filipino TNT side in scoring, firing a conference-high 18 points on 5-of-11 shooting from the field, alongside eight rebounds, three assists, and two steals.
Rey of light
The former Letran star did most of his damage in the middle quarters – just enough to keep his side afloat for a chance to steal the game at the end.
And steal the game they did, as Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser also came up big late before Pogoy took them home with that booming triple.
“That’s the kind of player he is. He took advantage and luckily, [he delivered],” Reyes said.
“For us kasi, si Rey, it’s not only his ability to score, but his ability to create plays and opportunities for his teammates.”
For Reyes, games like these from his other guys are certainly critical, noting how there will only be a few openings Meralco will be giving - and it’s up to the Tropang 5G to take advantage of those.
“Like I said, Meralco did a great defensive job and we’re just taking advantage of the things that we can [control],” he said.
“Against a great defensive team like Meralco there are very few opportunities.”
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