The TNT Tropang 5G showcased resilience and clutch execution as they erased a massive first-half deficit to claim a 100-95 victory over the Meralco Bolts in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup semifinals Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Meralco appeared in full control early, building a 21-point advantage in the first half, highlighted by a 13-0 run that had TNT reeling.

But the Tropang 5G regrouped in the second half, gradually chipping away at the lead before taking over in the fourth quarter.

Calvin Oftana was the star for TNT, delivering a crucial go-ahead jumper with less than three minutes left. He finished with 28 points and seven rebounds, while supporting cast Rey Nambatac added 17 points, and Roger Pogoy chipped in 16. Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser also contributed 14 points to help seal the win.

TNT dominated the third quarter 28-13, reversing the momentum and setting the stage for a dramatic finish. Meralco, led by Chris Banchero’s 16 points, struggled to maintain its first-half intensity, with Williams and Newsome unable to close the gap in the final minutes.

The Tropang 5G’s victory gives them a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series, sending a message that Meralco cannot rely on early bursts alone.

Game Scores – TNT vs. Meralco:

TNT 100 – Oftana 28, Nambatac 17, Pogoy 16, Ganuelas-Rosser 14, Heading 9, Williams 8, Khobuntin 6, Galinato Jr. 2, Erram 0, Jalalon 0, Enciso 0

Meralco 95 – Banchero 16, Cansino 14, Almazan 13, Newsome 13, Hodge 8, Black 6, Reyson 6, Rios 6, Quinto 5, Bates 4, Jose 4

Quarter Scores: 38-26, 24-20, 13-28, 20-26

With TNT seizing Game 1, the series now shifts to Game 2, where the Bolts will look to regain their footing and respond to the Tropang 5G’s second-half surge.