TNT made a statement in the opening game of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals, overcoming defending champion San Miguel Beer with a hard-fought 96-91 victory at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo on Wednesday.

The KaTropa came out firing, building an early double-digit lead and holding off the Beermen’s late surge in the final quarter. TNT’s balanced attack proved decisive, as six players scored in double figures to keep San Miguel at bay.

Williams led the way with 15 points, while Heading and Oftana each contributed 13. Galinato added 12, and Nambatac and Erram chipped in 11 and 10 points, respectively, providing TNT with consistent scoring throughout the night.

San Miguel leaned heavily on Fajardo, who posted a game-high 24 points. Tautuaa added 22, and Perez chipped in 16, but it wasn’t enough to close the gap created early by TNT.

The game’s momentum swung in the first half, with TNT outscoring San Miguel 53-36 by halftime. The Beermen mounted a comeback in the second half, trimming the deficit to five points in the final quarter, but TNT’s composure down the stretch sealed the win.

TNT now holds a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series, setting the stage for Game 2, where San Miguel will look to bounce back and even the series. TNT’s early dominance, however, sends a clear message: the defending champions are in for a tough fight.

Game Scores – TNT vs SMB:

TNT 96 – Williams 15, Heading 13, Oftana 13, Galinato 12, Nambatac 11, Enciso 10, Ganuelas-Rosser 8, Erram 6, Khobuntin 4, Ferrer 2, Aurin 2.

San Miguel 91 – Fajardo 24, Tautuaa 22, Perez 16, Brondial 10, Cruz 8, Tiongson 5, Trollano 4, Ross 2, Lassiter 0, Cahilig 0, Rosales 0, Teng 0.

Quarter Scores: 29-20, 53-36, 70-64, 96-91.