Rondae Hollis-Jefferson in action. PBA Images

MANILA, Philippines – TNT escaped Rain or Shine, 93-91, in the PBA Commissioner's Cup semifinals on Friday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

Up 16 points early in the third frame, the Tropang Giga almost squandered their lead as the Elasto Painters staged a comeback in the latter part of the second half.

The wards of Yeng Guiao pounced on the opportunity after the exit of TNT reinforcement Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who got fouled out with 5:36 left in the fourth period, and guard Jayson Castro who suffered an apparent knee injury.

In the thrilling last minute in the payoff period, the wards of Yeng Guiao had all the chances to tie — and even steal the lead — but they ultimately lost as Adrian Nocum missed the potential game-tying jumper with three seconds left in regulation.

The Tropang Giga are now sitting on a 2-0 cushion after the win.

READ: PBA: TNT draws first blood vs Rain or Shine in semis

After the match, coach Chot Reyes credited the team's ability to defend after the win. True enough, the Tropang Giga did not allow the Elasto Painters to steal the lead from them late in the fourth.

"It's our ability to go to our strength, which is our defense—even without Rondae and Jayson," said Reyes.

READ: PBA: Nocum powers Rain or Shine over Converge to punch semifinals ticket

"In the end, even if we missed, at least we were not giving up fast break points, which is the strength of Rain or Shine.

Governors' Cup Best Import Hollis-Jefferson poured a game-high 28 points and had 10 rebounds, while the veteran Castro delivered 13 points, five rebounds, and five assists before they exited the ballgame.

Meanwhile, Deon Marshall listed 22 markers and 14 boards for the losing cause. Nocum also had 19 points and four rebounds.

TNT has a chance to make it a 3-0 record as it tackles Rain or Shine again in Game 3 on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Tip-off is at 5 p.m.

The Scores:

TNT 93 – Hollis-Jefferson 28, Castro 13, Erram 11, Pogoy 10, Aurin 10, Williams 8, Oftana 7, Nambatac 3, Khobuntin 3

RAIN OR SHINE 91 – Thompson 22, Nocum 19, Mamuyac 11, Tiongson 10, Clarito 9, Caracut 7, Datu 7, Santillan 6, Asistio 0, Belga 0

QUARTERS: 24-24, 54-44, 81-75, 93-91