Aurin’s clutch four-point play lifts TNT past Beermen in overtime

Kim Aurin delivered a career-defining performance as TNT survived a late San Miguel comeback to secure a 93-90 overtime victory in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Season 50 Governors’ Cup on Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Battling through the flu, Aurin hit a tough corner three-pointer while drawing contact from San Miguel import George King, giving the Tropang 5G an 89-87 lead with 25.9 seconds remaining in overtime.

Although he missed the bonus free throw, Aurin stayed aggressive and grabbed his own offensive rebound to keep TNT’s possession alive.

Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson, making his return to the lineup, followed with a driving layup that extended TNT’s advantage to 91-87 with 10.4 seconds left.

San Miguel still had a chance to force another dramatic finish, but King missed the first of two free throws before intentionally missing the second in an attempt to create a rebound opportunity. Rey Nambatac secured the loose ball and calmly converted two free throws to seal the victory.

The win improved TNT’s record to 3-2 in Group A and gave the defending champions their first winning streak of the conference.

“I really don't know how we did it,” said TNT head coach Chot Reyes. “But I know how important mindset is. We could've had an attitude where we said, ‘Overtime na naman.’ That's why I made it a point to reframe it into a positive mindset.”

Aurin finished with a career-high 22 points on six three-pointers, along with eight rebounds and one steal.

“May nakita akong Bible verse, nakalagay dun sa Isaiah 40:31, ‘Those who hope in the Lord, they will renew their strength.’ Pinanghawakan ko lang ‘yun. Buti na lang, dininig ni Lord ‘yung dasal,” Aurin said.

Nambatac continued his strong conference with 21 points and nine rebounds, while Hollis-Jefferson made an immediate impact in his return with 20 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists.

Poy Erram also returned from illness and contributed 12 points, helping TNT overcome the absence of Roger Pogoy, who is sidelined with a Grade 1 MCL sprain.

San Miguel nearly completed the comeback behind another dominant performance from King, who posted 35 points and 16 rebounds. After a slow start, the import exploded late, scoring 18 points in the fourth quarter and overtime combined.

June Mar Fajardo added 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Marcio Lassiter chipped in 13 points. Don Trollano finished with 12 points, including the basket that tied the game at 73-all late in regulation to force overtime.

The defeat dropped San Miguel to 4-2, marking its second loss in three games, although the Beermen remained second in Group B behind unbeaten NLEX.