DEFENDING champion TNT showed it is ready to do battle with or without ace guard Mikey Williams, at least in its opener against Magnolia last Sunday night.
The Tropang Giga launched their title drive by carving out a 78-72 victory over the Hotshots in the season-opening PBA Philippine Cup.
Coach Chot Reyes pointed to TNT’s defense as making the difference in the absence of Williams and veteran Kelly Williams.
“Well, obviously without our most potent offensive weapon, we had to rely on our defense. The only way we can win games is to limit the production and the scoring of the other team. Fortunately, that’s what happened tonight,” Reyes said.
“You could see that we were bleeding for our points, it was very hard for us to score baskets. But we expected this, we knew we would struggle big time, especially not only without Mikey, but also without Kelly (Williams) as well,” he added.
Mikey Williams, who is still in the United States, was not around when the Rookie of the Year award was awarded to him in the annual Leo Awards before the pro league kicked off its 47th season. Williams was also named to the Mythical First team.
Reyes said he and Williams are still re-negotiating for a contract extension after last season’s rookie sensation opted to exercise his option on the second year of his pact.
“Unfortunately, the re-negotiation is going longer than expected. I’ve been talking to him constantly. I think we’ve spoken three times over the past week on the phone,” Reyes said.
“Apparently, I’m not doing a good job because I couldn’t sign him. But, you know, we’re still trying. We’re hoping.”
Troy Rosario showed the way for the Tropang Giga with a double-double of 22 points and 10 rebounds, while Jayson Castro chipped in 16 markers, 13 of them coming in the fourth quarter.
Ian Sangalang paced Magnolia with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Mark Barroca added 14 markers and five boards.
Calvin Abueva and Jio Jalalon also combined for 24 for the Hotshots.
Reyes praised his charges for pulling off the big win via a huge defensive effort.
