6 Seconds, One Steal, Two Free Throws: The Unbelievable Ending of TNT vs Meralco Game 5

TNT advanced to the PBA Philippine Cup Finals after a dramatic 99-96 comeback victory over Meralco in Game 5 of their semifinal series on January 14. The pivotal moment came in the final six seconds, with the team erasing a five-point deficit to secure the win.

Trailing 91-96, Rey Nambatac hit a crucial three-pointer to cut the lead to two points. Immediately after, Jordan Heading stole the ball from Meralco's CJ Cansino and scored a layup to give TNT the lead. Calvin Oftana then sealed the play with a perfectly timed block on Cansino, and Nambatac iced the game with two free throws.

Jordan Heading was named Player of the Game, finishing with 31 points, four rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Rey Nambatac supported with 25 points, four rebounds, and four assists, while Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser and Calvin Oftana combined for 22 points and 11 rebounds.

Despite the loss, Meralco's CJ Cansino delivered a career-high 36-point performance, including 15 points in the final 4:41 of the game in an attempt to rally his team from a 10-point deficit.

Coach Chot Reyes credited the win to the team's resilience and positive mindset, emphasizing his "never give up" mantra even when facing a five-point deficit late in the game. TNT now advances to the finals to face the winner of the San Miguel-Ginebra series.

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