PBA stands by call that nullified Mo Tautuaa dunk in Game 1

The PBA defended its decision to overturn San Miguel Beermen player Mo Tautuaa's dunk during the PBA Philippine Cup Finals Game 1 against TNT Tropang Giga, a ruling that contributed to TNT's 99-96 victory. Deputy commissioner Eric Castro explained that Tautuaa's action of pulling the rim after the dunk with 56 seconds remaining—which initially gave San Miguel a 98-97 lead—constituted basket interference under league rules.

Castro cited Rule j-5, stating that an offensive player causing the backboard to vibrate or grasping the basket in a manner that influences the ball's entry invalidates the basket. The reversal was confirmed via replay review during a dead ball with just five seconds left, sparking dismay from San Miguel officials including team governor Robert Non.

The overturned dunk proved pivotal in the game's outcome, marking a controversial start to the championship series at Smart Araneta Coliseum.