TNT Tropang 5G and Rain or Shine Overcome Disadvantages in PBA Semifinals

In a dramatic turn of events in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup playoffs, TNT Tropang 5G and Rain or Shine Elasto Painters have both triumphed over twice-to-win disadvantages to secure their spots in the semifinals. The quarterfinals, which concluded on June 22, 2025, showcased the resilience and tactical brilliance of both teams, setting the stage for an anticipated semifinal duel.

TNT Tropang 5G, pursuing a historic Grand Slam, narrowly defeated the Magnolia Hotshots with a final score of 80-79. This victory was pivotal for the team, which had faced significant pressure throughout the match. According to PBA Media Bureau's coverage, Calvin Oftana was instrumental in TNT's win, contributing 18 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, showcasing a remarkable shooting percentage of 75% true shooting (TS%). His ability to create mismatches against Magnolia's defense was critical, utilizing off-ball movement and quick ball screens to exploit defensive weaknesses.

TNT's head coach emphasized the importance of adapting to Magnolia's defensive strategies, stating, “We knew they would ramp up their intensity, and we had to be ready to counter that pressure.” The veteran leadership of Kelly Williams also proved crucial; his calm demeanor under pressure allowed him to sink two decisive free throws that ultimately sealed the victory for TNT.

Meanwhile, Rain or Shine Elasto Painters advanced to the semifinals after a convincing 103-92 win over the NLEX Road Warriors. Rain or Shine executed a strategic overhaul, particularly in the second half, where they capitalized on mismatches created by NLEX's defensive lineup. Andrei Caracut and Leonard Santillan were standout performers, combining for 40 points and demonstrating exceptional shooting from beyond the arc, contributing to a pivotal 21-5 run that shifted momentum decisively in Rain or Shine’s favor.

NLEX's head coach, Jong Uichico, expressed disappointment in the team’s inability to maintain their edge, stating, “We made adjustments, but we couldn’t sustain our execution when it mattered most.” Despite the loss, NLEX showcased potential, particularly through Robert Bolick’s 34-point performance, indicating a promising future if the team can refine their late-game execution and develop a cohesive unit.

The upcoming semifinal matchup between TNT and Rain or Shine is highly anticipated, as both teams have proven their mettle in overcoming significant challenges during the playoffs. Analysts predict a closely contested series, with both teams equipped with the talent and experience necessary to vie for the championship title.

In summary, the resilience shown by TNT and Rain or Shine in overcoming their disadvantages not only highlights their competitive spirit but also sets the stage for an exciting semifinal round in the PBA Philippine Cup. As the teams prepare for their showdown, each will look to build on their recent successes and capitalize on the lessons learned from their quarterfinal encounters.