TNT eyes trip back to Finals, SMB guns for 3-2 lead

The PBA Philippine Cup semifinals continue with crucial Game 5 matchups on Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. TNT Tropang 5G aims to secure a finals berth against Rain or Shine Elasto Painters at 5 p.m., while San Miguel Beer seeks a pivotal 3-2 series lead against Barangay Ginebra Kings at 7:30 p.m.

San Miguel Beer dominated Barangay Ginebra 107-82 in Game 4, breaking open a close game with a decisive 30-12 third quarter. Key player June Mar Fajardo appears recovered from a calf injury, contributing a double-double of 12 points and 19 rebounds. Coach Leo Austria praised Fajardo's focused mindset and recovery, noting the team's improved energy and concentration compared to their Game 3 loss. Austria also highlighted significant contributions from bench players CJ Perez, Juami Tiongson, Jericho Cruz, Marcio Lassiter, and Rodney Brondial in the series-tying victory.

TNT Tropang 5G secured a 108-92 win over Rain or Shine in Game 4 despite significant absences. The team played without the injured Roger Pogoy (hamstring), alongside sidelined veterans Jayson Castro and Rey Nambatac. Their manpower issues worsened as Calvin Oftana and Kelly Williams suffered ankle injuries during the game. Coach Chot Reyes acknowledged Rain or Shine's resilience despite facing elimination with a 1-3 deficit, crediting coach Yeng Guiao for adjustments and motivating his team. Reyes expects Rain or Shine's hardest effort yet in Game 5 and stressed TNT must be ready to match and overcome that intensity.