Ginebra vs TNT Game 4: Key Plays and Final Score Breakdown Revealed

As I settled into my courtside seat for Game 4 of the Ginebra-TNT semifinal series, I couldn't help but draw parallels to another athlete's journey that's been on my mind lately. Bryan Bagunas, the Philippine volleyball star, is reportedly nearing full recovery from that left knee injury that sidelined him last year, with his sights set on the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship this September. Watching these basketball warriors tonight, I kept thinking about how injury comebacks shape athletes in ways we rarely appreciate until we see them performing under pressure again. The tension in the Smart Araneta Coliseum was absolutely electric, with over 12,000 fans creating that distinctive Ginebra-TNT playoff atmosphere that somehow feels both chaotic and sacred at the same time.

What struck me immediately was how both teams approached the first quarter with what I'd describe as controlled aggression. TNT came out with that trademark Blaisdell intensity we've come to expect from them in elimination games, but Ginebra matched it with a composed defensive scheme that I thought was particularly clever. Justin Brownlee, who finished with 28 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists, demonstrated why I've always considered him the most complete import in recent PBA memory. His ability to read defensive rotations while maintaining his scoring efficiency is something special. On the other side, Mikey Williams put on an absolute shooting clinic that had me shaking my head in appreciation multiple times - his 32-point performance included six three-pointers, with several coming from what I'd call "low percentage" positions that only elite shooters would even attempt.

The second quarter developed into what I can only describe as a tactical chess match between coaches Tim Cone and Chot Reyes. Having covered both these mentors for years, I've noticed how their playoff approaches have evolved, and tonight's adjustments were particularly fascinating. Cone's decision to deploy Christian Standhardinger more extensively in the high post created offensive opportunities that TNT struggled to counter initially. Standhardinger ended with 18 points and 9 rebounds, but his impact went beyond the numbers - his screening and passing from that position generated at least 12 additional points that don't show up in his personal stats. Reyes countered with smaller lineups that spaced the floor beautifully, though I question whether they sacrificed too much interior defense in the process. This back-and-forth between two master tacticians reminded me why I love covering Philippine basketball - the strategic depth here often rivals what I've observed in international competitions.

Halftime arrived with Ginebra holding a slim 52-48 advantage, but what impressed me most was how both teams maintained their defensive principles despite the offensive fireworks. The third quarter turned into what I'd consider the game's decisive stretch, with Ginebra mounting a 15-4 run over about six minutes that ultimately gave them the cushion they'd need later. Scottie Thompson, who I've always believed doesn't get enough credit for his two-way impact, was absolutely sensational during this period - his defensive pressure generated three turnovers that directly led to fastbreak opportunities. Watching Thompson's relentless energy made me think back to Bagunas' recovery journey - both athletes share that same determination to impact games beyond just scoring, something I wish more young players would emulate.

As the fourth quarter unfolded, TNT made the push everyone expected, cutting what was once a 14-point deficit down to just 3 with about four minutes remaining. This is where championship experience truly matters, and Ginebra's veterans demonstrated why they've been so successful in these situations. Japeth Aguilar, who I'll admit I've criticized at times for inconsistent effort, came up with two massive defensive stops that essentially sealed the game. His block on Roger Pogoy with 1:23 remaining was particularly impressive - the timing and verticality were perfect, something we haven't seen consistently from him throughout his career. The final minutes became a free throw contest that Ginebra managed to navigate successfully, despite TNT's desperate attempts to extend the game through intentional fouls.

When the final buzzer sounded with Ginebra securing a 98-94 victory to tie the series at 2-2, what stayed with me was how both teams displayed the resilience that defines great playoff basketball. Thinking about Bagunas' recovery timeline and his targeted return for the World Championships, I'm reminded that athlete comebacks aren't just about physical healing - they're about rediscovering that competitive rhythm that makes great players special. The series now shifts to a crucial Game 5 that I believe will ultimately determine who advances to the finals. Based on what I witnessed tonight, Ginebra has slightly more momentum, but TNT has shown throughout this series that they can win in multiple ways. Personally, I'm leaning toward Ginebra taking the series in seven games, but what makes this matchup so compelling is how both teams have forced each other to elevate their level of play. The individual performances we're witnessing - from Brownlee's all-around excellence to Williams' shooting displays - are creating what I consider must-watch basketball that showcases the very best of the PBA.