Troy Rosario shoots Tropang TNT past Alaska in Game 1

The star rookie finishes with a career-high to lead the defending Commissioner’s Cup champion to a crucial first win

Naveen Ganglani

Published 5:19 PM, April 17, 2016

Updated 7:54 PM, April 17, 2016

STAR IN THE MAKING. Troy Rosario continues to turn heads after a spectacular playoff performance. Photo from PBA Images

MANILA, Philippines – The future is already delivering in the present for Coach Jong Uichico’s team.

Led by the career-high 31 points and 7 3-pointers by rookie Troy Rosario, Tropang TNT survived a close battle with the Alaska Aces and came away with a Game 1 victory, 106-99, on Sunday, April 17, at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Rosario, who scored 12 of his 31 in the final period, also hit big clutch shots down the stretch to put Alaska on the brink of elimination in the 3-game quarterfinal series.

Scores:

Tropang TNT (106): Rosario 31, Simon 34, Castro 17, De Ocampo 13, Ababou 6, Williams 5, Ganuelas-Rosser 4, Tautuaa 4, Carey 2, Fonacier 0, R Reyes 0, J Reyes 0

Alaska (99): Dozier 22, Abueva 18, Eximiniano 11, Banchero 10, Thoss 8, Jazul 7, Manuel 6, Baclao 4, Hontiveros 4, Dela Cruz 3, Menk 3, Dela Rosa 2, Baguio 1

Quarter scores: 27-27; 57-44; 81-72; 106-99 – Rappler.com