Michael Craig delivered a triple-double in an impressive PBA debut as he carried TNT KaTropa to a 106-96 victory over Kia Picanto in the Oppo Governors’ Cup on Friday at Ynares Center in Antipolo.
The wide-bodied Craig poured in 21 points, 13 rebounds and 12 assists while wowing the crowd with his nimble footwork and hangtime moves.
Troy Rosario added 18 points and 10 boards for KaTropa who notched their first win of the tournament.
After giving up the first two points of the game, TNT dropped a 12-0 run to take the lead.
Kia rallied back but TNT, behind Craig and Levi Hernandez’ surprise eight points off the bench, regained control at the half, 53-44.
KaTropa led by as many as 17 points but Kia managed to trim it to just five, 96-91, with 3:40 left. However, TNT had the enough firepower to stave off Picanto.
Markeith Cummings scored 27 points to lead Kia which dropped its third straight game to go 0-3.
The scores:
TNT 106 – Craig 21, Rosario 18, Castro 16, Williams 11, Hernandez 8, Pogoy 8, Semerad 7, Tautuaa 7, De Ocampo 6, Carey 4, Garcia 0, Seigle 0, Tamsi 0.
KIA 96 – Cummings 27, Celda 14, Revilla 8, Salva 8, Paniamogan 8, Corpuz 5, Elorde 5, Khobuntin 4, Galanza 4, Camson 4, Jaime 3, Nimes 3, Deutchman 3, Yee 0.
QUARTERS: 25-21, 53-44, 79-71, 106-96.
