TNT made Philippine 3×3 history on Sunday as it ousted Purefoods, 14-10, in the quarterfinals of Leg 5, Sunday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
The Tropang Giga did what no other ball club was able to do in the past in either of the two pro 3×3 leagues in the country, as they became the first eighth-seed to upset the top-ranked team.
Lervin Flores scored twice in their 3-0 start, and they controlled the game from then on as the Tender Juicy Titans just couldn’t find their groove.
Samboy De Leon hit a long two-pointer and then swished a mid-range jumper to stretch their lead to seven, 11-4, with 3:11 left to play.
De Leon finished with seven points, while Flores and Almond Vosotros chipped in three each. New addition Chris Javier scored one.
This, indeed, is a huge victory for TNT, who went 0-2 in Day 1 but managed to earn a shot at the quarters by beating San Miguel earlier, 21-14.
The Tropa continued their winning ways, dominating Barangay Ginebra San Miguel 21-10 in the knockout for the last playoff ticket.
Then the upset of Purefoods, who was actually a favorite to repeat as champs after a strong showing in the group stages with a 4-0 sweep of Pool A.
With this, a new champion will be crowned, continuing what has become a trend in the inaugural season of the PBA;s halfcourt competitions.
TNT will take on Terrafirma in the semis.
The Scores:
TNT 14 – De Leon 7, Vosotros 3, Flores 3, Javier 1.
Purefoods 10 – Eriobu 6, Mendoza 2, Javelona 2, Bonsubre 0.
