Wounded TNT not giving up

Despite Ginebra’s huge 3-1 lead

SMART CLARK GIGA CITY, Pampanga, Philippines — Down but not out, wounded TNT Tropang Giga vowed to fight and keep their bubble dreams alive regardless of the odds.

Following their 88-98 setback last Sunday, the Tropang Giga are facing a do-or-die situation against a Barangay Ginebra side intent on clinching the coveted PBA Philippine Cup crown with one more victory tomorrow.

“Hindi pa naman tapos ang lahat (It’s not over yet). They still need to win one game (to capture the title),” said a defiant TNT coach Bong Ravena.

“Basta kami, we’ll just try and try to win Game 5,” he added.

Ravena and company have to deal not only with a tough and determined Ginebra but also injuries to key personnel.

Ray Parks Jr., the team’s top gun, has missed the last three games of the series due to a strain on his left calf.

To make matters worse, veteran playmaker Jayson Castro limped out after only 17 minutes of action in Game 4. Castro is bothered by bone spurs.

There’s a chance the duo will sit out the make-or-break fifth match.

“Both are day-to-day,” said Ravena, who challenged his healthier charges to rise to the occasion.

“As much as much possible, we want to get contribution from everyone. Next-man-up (mentality). That’s what we need. So hopefully, we’ll be ready on Wednesday,” he added.

After playing catch-up in the first three encounters and successfully overcoming double-digit deficits twice, Ginebra put its best foot forward in Game 4.

The Gin Kings led by as many as 18 points and turned to LA Tenorio’s cold-blooded shooting down the stretch to fend off the furious rally of RR Pogoy and TNT.

Ginebra mentor Tim Cone said it was the squad’s “best game” of the entire bubble.

“We hit big shots all night, we made plays, we made defensive stops, held the lead for the most part and then they made their big run,” said Cone. “But I felt we played well Sunday night. I hope we can carry it over into Wednesday.”

The Gin Kings are seeking their first All-Filipino plum since the 2006-07 season – and their first under Cone.