TNT blasts Phoenix to enter PBA Govs' Cup semis

RR Pogoy sizzled for the Tropang Giga. Dennis Acosta

By Ivan Saldajeno

QUEZON CITY—TNT booked the third seat in the PBA Governors' Cup semifinals after drubbing Phoenix, 132-105, in their quarterfinal match on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Tropang Giga turned to their defense to eliminate the Fuel Masters despite the latter's sizzling start.

Phoenix, showing heart despite the twice-to-beat disadvantage, erupted for 41 points in the first quarter, but TNT held them to a combined 42 points in the next two quarters as they pulled away from there.

RR Pogoy led the Tropang Giga, who will face the winner of the other quarterfinal tie between the Meralco Bolts and the Magnolia Hotshots, with 25 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists, four steals, and one block.

Jayson Castro chipped in 20 points, one rebound, four assists, and two steals, Glenn Khobuntin added 19 points, four rebounds, and two assists, and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson put up a triple-double of 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists.

Du'Vaughn Maxwell led the Fuel Masters with 23 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, and one steal, while Jason Perkins added 21 points, six rebounds, one assist, and one steal.

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