TNT vs San Miguel Game 2 Highlights and Key Takeaways from PBA Finals
I still remember the tension in the arena during Game 2 of the PBA Finals between TNT and San Miguel - you could practically feel the electricity in the air. Having followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I've witnessed numerous championship battles, but this particular series has something special brewing. The way Johnedel Cardel has transformed TNT since taking over as Titan Ultra head coach is nothing short of remarkable. Honestly, I wasn't sure how he'd handle the pressure of his first finals appearance as head coach, but he's proving to be exactly what this franchise needed.
The game started with both teams trading baskets, but TNT quickly established their rhythm with a 12-4 run in the first quarter. What impressed me most was their defensive intensity - they held San Miguel to just 38% shooting in the opening period while forcing 5 turnovers. I've always believed defense wins championships, and TNT demonstrated that philosophy beautifully. Their switching defense disrupted San Miguel's offensive flow, particularly limiting June Mar Fajardo's effectiveness in the paint. Statistics showed Fajardo, who normally averages 18 points per game, was held to just 12 points through three quarters. Watching Mikey Williams operate was pure basketball artistry - his 28-point performance included 6 three-pointers, with 4 of them coming in crucial moments when San Miguel threatened to take control.
Speaking of crucial moments, the third quarter turnaround was where Cardel's coaching brilliance truly shone. San Miguel had mounted a comeback, cutting the lead to just 3 points with 4:32 remaining in the period. During the timeout, I noticed Cardel drawing up plays with such calm authority - you'd never guess this was his first finals series as head coach. The team executed perfectly out of that timeout, going on an 8-0 run that essentially sealed the game. Kelly Williams provided unexpected offense with 15 points off the bench, including three momentum-shifting dunks that brought the crowd to its feet. From my perspective, it's these unsung hero performances that often determine championship series.
San Miguel certainly had their moments though - CJ Perez was absolutely sensational, finishing with 32 points on 52% shooting. His athletic drives to the basket kept San Miguel within striking distance throughout the second half. However, their bench production was concerning - just 18 total points compared to TNT's 35 bench points. In a seven-game series, depth becomes increasingly important, and this could become a significant factor as the series progresses. I've seen many teams falter in the finals due to inadequate bench support, and San Miguel needs to address this quickly if they hope to reclaim control of the series.
What struck me as particularly impressive was TNT's ball movement - 24 assists on 38 made field goals demonstrates the kind of unselfish basketball Cardel has instilled in this team. They're playing with a joy and connectivity that's rare in high-pressure situations. Roger Pogoy's all-around contribution of 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 steals exemplified this team-first mentality. Having covered numerous PBA seasons, I can confidently say this version of TNT plays some of the most aesthetically pleasing basketball I've witnessed in recent years.
The fourth quarter became a formality as TNT maintained their double-digit lead throughout, eventually winning 98-86. The final margin doesn't fully capture how competitive this game was - there were 7 lead changes and 9 ties before TNT took control for good late in the third quarter. From my vantage point, the key difference was three-point shooting - TNT connected on 14 of their 32 attempts (43.8%) while San Miguel managed just 8 of 25 (32%). In today's basketball, that shooting disparity is often insurmountable.
Looking ahead, I believe this series will go at least six games. San Miguel is too talented and experienced to go down quietly. However, what Cardel has accomplished in such a short time with TNT is extraordinary. His players clearly believe in his system and execute with conviction. The confidence they're playing with reminds me of some of the great Tim Cone-coached teams - there's a palpable sense of purpose in every possession. For basketball purists like myself, it's thrilling to watch a team peak at the perfect moment. Game 3 becomes absolutely critical - if TNT can steal one on the road, they might just wrap this series up sooner than anyone anticipated. But knowing San Miguel's championship pedigree, I expect them to respond with tremendous force in the next game.
