Filipino basketball fans, get hyped—Rondae Hollis-Jefferson believes TNT Tropang Giga is on the verge of making history, with or without him on the floor.
The former NBA standout made a surprise appearance at Game 1 of the PBA Philippine Cup Finals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where TNT pulled off a gutsy 99-96 win over powerhouse San Miguel Beermen. But while RHJ wasn’t in uniform, he was all heart, cheering on the squad he helped build into a juggernaut.
“I believe we can win, with or without me,” said Hollis-Jefferson confidently after the game.
And it’s not just talk. TNT has already bagged this season’s Governors’ Cup and Commissioner’s Cup, putting them just one Philippine Cup title away from a rare and prestigious PBA Grand Slam—a feat only a few teams in league history have ever achieved.
Skeptics thought the dream was dead after TNT stumbled to an 0-3 start in the all-Filipino conference. Many doubted they could go far without their import. But true to form, coach Chot Reyes’ squad showed grit, heart, and that never-say-die Pinoy spirit, clawing their way back into the Finals despite dealing with injuries and adversity.
Key reinforcements like Jordan Heading and the returning Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser have stepped up big time, proving that this TNT team is deep, battle-tested, and hungry.
“I think me being around, showing them how I prepare, how hard I work—that energy has rubbed off,” Hollis-Jefferson added. “You see it in how they’re grinding out wins, even when banged up. That’s championship mentality.”
RHJ has been in the Philippines for his “RHJ on Tour 2025” basketball camps, spreading love for the game from Metro Manila to the provinces. And though he’s not suiting up, he’s still making his presence felt—mentoring, motivating, and believing in his brothers on the court.
As TNT inches closer to a potential Grand Slam, one thing is clear: this team isn’t just riding on one superstar. They’re writing a legacy together—and Filipino fans are here for it.