PBA: TNT pulls away in 4th to deny SMB coronation

Brandon Rosser stepped up to keep TNT's grand slam hopes alive. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

QUEZON CITY--After all the uncertainty surrounding Game 5 amid the stormy weather, one thing became certain after Wednesday night: the PBA Philippine Cup Finals will end at the PhilSports Arena.

TNT kept San Miguel from clinching the season-ending conference's championship in its first try with an 86-78 win at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Tropang 5G pulled away for good with a 13-2 run to start the fourth, even as they held off the Beermen down the stretch.

Brandon Rosser led TNT, which forced a Game 6 on Friday night at the fabled Pasig arena formerly known as The ULTRA, with 18 points on 9-of-14 shooting, five rebounds, one assist, five blocks, and three steals as he stepped up following the absence of Poy Erram, who tore his hamstring in Game 4.

Kelly Williams added 14 points on four threes, seven rebounds, and two assists.

Jericho Cruz led SMB with 20 points and four rebounds, while June Mar Fajardo added 13 points, 13 rebounds, three assists, two blocks, and two steals.

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