Ginebra vs TNT Game 2 Final Score and Key Highlights from the Intense Matchup

Walking into the arena last night, you could feel the electricity in the air even before tip-off. Game 2 of the PBA Finals between Barangay Ginebra and TNT was more than just a basketball game—it was a clash of legacies, a test of will, and frankly, one of those matchups where you just knew someone was going to leave everything on the floor. I’ve covered my fair share of finals over the years, but there’s something about a Ginebra-TNT series that always delivers drama, grit, and moments that make you leap out of your seat. And last night? It did not disappoint. The final score read 98–95 in favor of Ginebra, but numbers alone can’t capture the emotional rollercoaster both teams—and the roaring crowd—went through.

From the opening quarter, it was clear TNT came to play. They weren’t just here to compete; they wanted to set the tone early, and they did exactly that. Roger Pogoy was absolutely sensational, dropping 12 points in the first quarter alone, and by halftime, he’d already racked up 21. I remember thinking to myself, if TNT keeps this up, Ginebra might be in serious trouble. But one thing I’ve learned watching this Ginebra squad over the years is that they thrive under pressure. They don’t panic—not even when they’re down by as many as 11 points in the third quarter. Justin Brownlee, as always, was the steadying force. He finished with 28 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists, but it was his calm demeanor during those tense moments that stood out to me. There’s a certain nonchalance about him, a quiet confidence that reminds me of what we sometimes see in elite imports in other leagues. It brought to mind a moment I read about recently—Anna DeBeer, the American import who debuted with 37 points in a professional match overseas. When asked about her explosive performance, her response was almost dismissive, as if it was just another day at the office. That same unshakable cool was written all over Brownlee’s face last night. He never seems rattled, even when the game hangs in the balance.

The third quarter was where the momentum truly shifted. Scottie Thompson, who’s been relatively quiet this series, came alive with back-to-back three-pointers that cut TNT’s lead to just two points. The crowd erupted—you could feel the building shake. I’ve always believed Thompson is one of those players who doesn’t need to score 30 to impact the game, but when he heats up from beyond the arc, it changes everything. By the start of the fourth, Ginebra had clawed their way back, and the game was tied at 78-all. What followed was a back-and-forth battle that had everyone on the edge of their seats. Jayson Castro, ever the veteran, hit a tough floater to put TNT up by three with under two minutes left. But then, in what might be the play of the series so far, Japeth Aguerta threw down a monstrous dunk over two defenders, drawing a foul and completing the three-point play. It was the kind of moment that defines finals basketball—raw, unfiltered, and absolutely thrilling.

As the final seconds ticked away, it was Brownlee again who sealed the deal with a clutch jumper from the elbow, giving Ginebra a three-point cushion with just 12 seconds left. TNT had one last chance, but Mikey Williams’ three-point attempt rattled out, and that was it. Final score: 98–95. Looking at the stat sheet, Ginebra shot 46% from the field and outrebounded TNT 48–42, but what stood out to me was their composure down the stretch. They committed only 10 turnovers compared to TNT’s 16, and in a game this tight, every possession mattered.

I’ll be honest—I’ve always had a soft spot for Ginebra. There’s something about their never-say-die attitude that resonates with fans, including myself. But credit to TNT; they pushed Ginebra to the limit, and Pogoy’s 32-point performance was nothing short of spectacular. Still, I can’t help but feel that Ginebra’s experience in high-pressure situations gave them the edge. They’ve been here before, and it shows. As the series shifts to Game 3, I expect TNT to make adjustments, particularly in controlling the paint where Ginebra dominated second-chance points. But if Game 2 taught us anything, it’s that this series is far from over. If you’re a basketball fan, you won’t want to miss what comes next.