MANILA, Philippines — Veteran guard Rey Nambatac delivered a crucial three-pointer in the closing moments to power TNT to a nail-biting 87-85 victory over Barangay Ginebra, reclaiming the series lead in Game 3 of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup finals on Wednesday at Philsports Arena.
Nambatac’s Hot Shooting Leads TNT
The left-handed former Letran standout had a stellar night, scoring 24 points, with 15 of them coming in the second half. He sank a game-high five three-pointers, including the dagger shot that put TNT ahead, 85-82, with 30 seconds left.
Ginebra Loses Brownlee to Injury
Ginebra suffered a major blow when Justin Brownlee exited the game in the third quarter due to a suspected dislocated right thumb, which he injured while diving for a loose ball.
With Ginebra scrambling, TNT forward Glenn Khobuntin capitalized on a crucial turnover by rookie RJ Abarrientos, scoring a basket with 14 seconds remaining, all but sealing TNT’s Game 3 win and a 2-1 series lead.
Though Scottie Thompson hit a desperation three-pointer with 2.6 seconds left, Ginebra simply ran out of time.
Stat Leaders
- Rondae Hollis-Jefferson came close to a triple-double, finishing with 20 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists.
- Calvin Oftana contributed 16 points, while Khobuntin added 10.
For Ginebra:
- Brownlee still led his team with 19 points, four rebounds, and six assists in 28 minutes before leaving the game.
- Thompson posted 15 points, eight rebounds, and five assists.
- Troy Rosario and Abarrientos each chipped in 13 points.
With the win, TNT now holds a 2-1 series lead, putting Ginebra under pressure heading into Game 4.
