The Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters is scheduled for a head-to-head game against the TNT Tropang Giga at 6:30 PM on November 20, 2020, live from the AUF Sports Arena and Cultural Center in Angeles City, Pampanga.
Banking on the heroics of veteran player Jayson Castro, the TNT Tropang Giga turned back a Phoenix side that proved tough even without gunner Matthew Wright, 95-92, for a 1-0 headstart in the PBA bubble semifinals.
Castro shot 12 in the closeout as he posted a team-high 20 points plus six rebounds, six assists and two steals and a lot of intangibles as TNT dug deep to finish off the resilient Fuel Masters.
“Jayson really stepped up, we really needed his leadership, his decision-making and we’re fortunate he made those very important baskets (in the stretch),” said TNT head coach Bong Ravena.
Playing against a team who practically lose their ace player Matthew Wright, who was forced out of action by a sprained ankle he sustained halfway through the first canto, odds are in Ginebra’s favor. Wright twisted his foot as he landed on Troy Rosario after making his lone basket and called it a night after only six minutes and 42 seconds on the floor.
“The Beast” and the do-it-all forward Calvin Abueva got three early fouls and played the stretch with five.
“We know they’re not going to give up, they will stay in the game with their energy so it was important for us to match while maintaining our defense,” said Ravena.
The Tropang Giga pounced on the duo’s absence and seized control in the third, where they opened up a 12-point upper hand at 54-42.