The TNT Tropang 5G are determined to settle unfinished business as they enter the PBA’s golden season, aiming to bounce back in the Philippine Cup after narrowly missing a historic grand slam last year.
Fresh off capturing both the Governors’ and Commissioner’s Cup, TNT’s dream of sweeping all three conferences collapsed in the finals of the All-Filipino tournament, where they fell to San Miguel Beer in six games.
“Last conference, konti na lang, grand slam sana. Pero ayun, another opportunity this coming season. Babawi kami sa All-Filipino,” TNT star RR Pogoy said during Thursday’s PBA Media Day presented by Arena Plus.
The two-day event also featured partners Don Benito’s, Yellow Cab, Better Blend, CURVE Coffee Collaborators, Fitbar, Buffalo’s, Hungry Daddy, Daily Fantasy, and World Balance.
Unlike last year, where the Philippine Cup capped Season 49, the PBA’s crown jewel will serve as the opener for Season 50, giving TNT a chance at early redemption when hostilities begin October 5.
Pogoy admitted the sting of the near miss continues to fuel their drive, but stressed the team is focused on turning disappointment into motivation. “Hindi naman gigil, pero dagdag motivation. Sayang kasi, konti na lang sana. Pero ayun nga, another opportunity this coming season.”
Coach Chot Reyes echoed Pogoy’s sentiments, noting that TNT has plenty to build on despite the bitter ending.
“If you look back at last season, I thought we performed pretty well. It’s a matter of continuing that improvement,” Reyes said. “But we’re not satisfied. Other teams have beefed up, and we’ll have a huge target on our backs. We have to be ready.”