Magnolia tops Group B to set up TNT quarterfinal clash
The Hotshots enter the PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals on a six-game winning streak, but TNT eliminated them in their previous two playoff meetings.
Magnolia secured first place in Group B by defeating Rain or Shine 107-103 at Antipolo’s Ynares Center, setting up a PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinal against defending champions TNT Tropang 5G.
TNT placed fourth in Group A after injuries kept Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Calvin Oftana out for part of the conference. Magnolia head coach LA Tenorio said his side needed to prepare for an experienced, well-coached opponent strengthened by their return.
The teams will meet at the quarterfinal stage for the third time across four conferences. TNT eliminated Magnolia in both previous encounters, overcoming the Hotshots’ twice-to-beat advantage in the Season 49 Philippine Cup before winning their next All-Filipino quarterfinal meeting with that advantage themselves.
Tenorio said Magnolia’s six consecutive victories provided valuable momentum, although the teams had not faced each other during this conference. He described the matchup as a test for both himself as a new coach and his players, stressing the need for precision against TNT.
Magnolia has not advanced to the semifinals since its run to the Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup finals. Tenorio said the team had yet to perform to its full potential and hoped it could do so collectively in the quarterfinals.
