Terrafirma’s Strong Start in PBA Philippine Cup
For the first time since 2016, Terrafirma opens the conference with a rare 2-0 start, tied with Blackwater at the top of the standings.
Turning Heads in the PBA
A longtime underdog in the league, Terrafirma Dyip is starting to make waves in the PBA Philippine Cup. Their 2-0 start in the conference, the first since the 2016 Governors’ Cup, is turning heads in the basketball community.
Key Players
High-scoring guard Juami Tiongson led the way for Terrafirma with 21 points in a hard-fought 99-95 victory over the NLEX Road Warriors. Javi Gomez de Liaño and rookie Stephen Holt also made significant contributions, with Gomez scoring 18 points and Holt showcasing a well-rounded game with 17 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals.
- Tiongson – 21 points
- Gomez de Liaño – 18 points
- Holt – 17 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals
Coach’s Perspective
Terrafirma head coach Johnedel Cardel emphasized the importance of staying focused and not getting complacent despite their early success. The team’s goal is to reach the quarterfinals, drawing inspiration from their past successes in 2016.
Game Highlights
In a thrilling showdown against NLEX, Terrafirma came back from a double-digit halftime deficit to secure the victory. The game was marked by intense back-and-forth action, with key plays down the stretch sealing the win for Terrafirma.
Box Score
Terrafirma 99: Tiongson 21, Gomez de Liaño 18, Holt 17, Calvo 16, Alolino 9, Sangalang 8, Go 7, Ramos 3, Cahilig 0, Camson 0, Mina 0.
NLEX 95: Bolick 29, Nermal 15, Valdez 9, Miranda 7, Ular 7, Anthony 6, Semerad 6, Nieto 6, Marcelo 4, Pascual 4, Herndon 2.
Final Thoughts
Terrafirma’s victory over NLEX showcased their resilience and determination to succeed in the PBA Philippine Cup. With promising young talent and a motivated coaching staff, the Dyip are setting their sights on further success as the conference unfolds.
