RR Pogoy dials in defensively, shines offensively for TNT

TNT Tropang Giga’s RR Pogoy during a PBA Philippine Cup game against Meralco Bolts. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines— TNT shooter RR Pogoy wanted to put emphasis on his defense for the Tropang 5G in their game against Meralco in the PBA Philippine Cup.

But, like clockwork, it was Pogoy’s mastery on offense that shone through.

“First of all, coming into this game, my focus was really on defense because the offense will just follow,” said Pogoy after the Tropang 5G pushed past the Bolts, 101-84, for their third straight win on Sunday.

“It’s been how many games now that I wasn’t scoring points because defense is my focus, so I’m grateful that they [shots] went in tonight.”

TNT improved to 3-3 at the expense of the defending Philippine Cup champions, leaning heavily on Pogoy’s two-way effort.

The former Gilas Pilipinas guard was lights-out from the field, converting 12 of 18 attempts, including five triples and a four-point shot that helped put the game out of reach.

On the other end, Pogoy helped hold Meralco to under 90 points.

Coach Chot Reyes also said it was the squad’s defense that ultimately lit the fire under his sweet-shooting guard’s high-scoring night.

“Like we always say in our team, when we defend well, our offense will follow and take care of itself,” said Reyes.

The Bolts, meanwhile, dropped to 3-4 in the standings.

Pogoy and the Tropang Giga will try to extend their winning streak to four on Wednesday when they face Rain or Shine at Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo.