TNT disappointed in Game 4

The TNT KaTropa were in prime position in Game 4 but they eventually watched their momentum go up in flames. The struggle was just everywhere as the team played like Meralco was just going to lie down for them, as opposed to going in for the kill. It led to a 92-83 loss, with TNT going 7-for-33 from three and shooting just 38% overall.

The pressure is now back on TNT’s side, and getting back in focus is easier said than done. Thankfully, though, a guy like KJ McDaniels is at its disposal, whose presence on both sides cannot be counted out. The high-flying, high-energy import will be a force no matter what and we can expect a big night for him tomorrow. He has averaged 36 points, 13.8 rebounds, and 4.7 assists in the series.

What’s concerning is the true effectiveness of the locals. The production is there – Troy Rosario, Roger Pogoy, and Jayson Castro are all chipping in over 15 points per game in the series – and it’s arguably better than any team in the league, and yet, it has only led to this: a knockout game in the semifinals.

The Bolts are charged up

The Meralco Bolts are all charged up following that gutsy win in Game 4. Despite not handling the ball well (17 turnovers) and having problems connecting on outside shots (6-for-20 from three) like TNT, they shot well enough (48%) and gave themselves plenty of second chance opportunities (19 offensive rebounds). Most importantly, they snatched the momentum out of TNT’s hands.

Import Allen Durham was in usual form Saturday night and scored a team-high 36 points to go along 13 rebounds and five assists. Hopefully, Durham (30.8 PPG, 15.7 RPG, 6.5 APG) has a couple of more Superman-like performance left in his tank as he’s the absolute lifeblood of the Bolts.

Baser Amer led the locals in the Game 4 victory by filling the stat sheet nicely – 12 points, seven assists, and four steals. He’ll continue being in a tough and interesting match-up opposite the KaTropa guards.

The two other Meralco starters, meanwhile, Chris Newsome (10 points in Game 4) and Raymond Almazan, would have to be better tomorrow night, particularly the latter. Almazan turned the ball over six times in just 17 minutes of play.

PREDICTION:

TNT wins a hard-fought battle, 99-96.

Look for Allen Durham to go off, though.