TNT guns for 4th victory

Games today:

(Ynares Center-Antipolo)

5:15 p.m. — Blackwater vs NLEX

7:30 p.m. — Meralco vs TNT

TNT Tropang 5G aims to break free from a tight logjam atop the leaderboard in a showdown against Meralco in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Season 50 Philippine Cup today at the Ynares Center-Antipolo.

The Tropang 5G will try to extend their winning streak to three when they march back on court at 7:30 p.m. to meet the Bolts, who are looking to build momentum before embarking on a month-long campaign in the East Asia Super League (EASL).

With most of its injured players back on commission, TNT prevailed over Converge in an out-of-town game in Vigan, Ilocos Sur and simply outclassed Titan Ultra in a 130-92 crushing last Friday.

The Tropang 5G parade a 3-1 win-loss record, which they share with the FiberXers, Magnolia, NLEX, and Rain or Shine.

“It’s crucial we’ve got everyone back healthy,” TNT head coach Chot Reyes said.

“Everyone getting in is obviously much better than not having a complete lineup. That’s the main difference, with us continuously improving. And hopefully, we continue playing on a high level.”

On the other hand, Meralco wants to add a win to its current 3-3 slate before attending to its commitment in the EASL.

The Bolts are scheduled to play a pair of back-to-back games against the Taoyuan Pauian Pilots and the Macau Black Bears on 2 and 8 November and on 15 November and 6 December, respectively.

Meanwhile, NLEX is determined to string a third straight win to stay at the top spot.

The Road Warriors battle skidding Blackwater at 5:15 p.m.

NLEX head coach Jong Uichico underscored the importance of staying disciplined, especially on the defensive end. Defense keyed in the Road Warriors’ conquests of Phoenix 87-81 last week and Meralco, 89-85, last Sunday.

“We know we cannot outscore our opponents, we’re not that kind of team,” Uichico said.

“You should know the limitations of your team offensively and then you try to defend the best way you can. And hopefully your game plan works.”

The Bossing, on the other hand, are on a mission to snap a two-game slide, improve their 1-2 slate and fan their hopes of making it among the top eight teams advancing to the playoffs.

But Blackwater is sure to have a difficult time against an NLEX side with an in-form Kevin Alas, Robert Bolick and JB Bahio leading the way.

The challenge gets even harder for the Bossing with the questionable status of RK Ilagan due to injury, leaving Sedrick Barefield and Christian David to carry much of the load.