Game 4 Ginebra vs TNT: Key Plays and Final Score Analysis from the Epic Matchup

Walking into the arena before Game 4 of the Ginebra vs TNT series, I could already feel the kind of electricity you only get from a matchup this significant. As someone who’s covered dozens of PBA clashes over the years, I’ve learned to recognize when a game is destined to become an instant classic—and this one had all the signs. Both teams came in with something to prove, and the atmosphere was thick with anticipation. But what really struck me, even before tip-off, was how much this game reminded me of another dominant performance I’d recently studied: the Chiefs’ 82-60 dismantling of Jose Rizal University just days earlier. Maverick Vinoya’s stat line—29 points, eight rebounds, five steals—was the kind of complete, two-way effort that wins championships, and I couldn’t help but wonder if we’d see a similar individual explosion here.

From the opening minutes, it was clear Ginebra had a defensive game plan built around disrupting TNT’s rhythm. They forced three turnovers in the first six minutes alone, and by the end of the first quarter, they’d built a 24-18 lead. I’ve always believed that defense travels, especially in high-stakes games, and Ginebra’s ability to clog passing lanes and contest every shot set the tone early. But TNT, to their credit, didn’t fold. They answered with a 12-4 run in the second quarter, fueled by back-to-back triples from their veteran guard—a sequence that brought the crowd to its feet and shifted momentum entirely. Watching that back-and-forth, I kept thinking about Vinoya’s five steals in the Chiefs’ win. Individual defensive plays like that don’t just stop scoring—they ignite transitions, demoralize opponents, and often decide close games.

The third quarter was where things really got interesting. Ginebra’s star big man, who’d been relatively quiet in the first half, exploded for 14 points in just under seven minutes. His dominance in the paint reminded me of how Vinoya controlled the glass against JRU—grabbing eight boards isn’t just about height, it’s about positioning and hustle. And honestly? I’ve always had a soft spot for players who elevate when it matters most. With about five minutes left in the quarter, Ginebra stretched their lead to nine, and for a moment, it looked like they might pull away. But TNT’s resilience was something else. They clawed back, cutting the deficit to just two points heading into the fourth. At that point, you could feel the tension in the building—every possession felt like it carried the weight of the entire series.

Then came the final period, and what a rollercoaster it was. With under three minutes to go, TNT sank a contested three to take a one-point lead, 88-87. I’ll admit, I thought they had it. But Ginebra answered with a methodical, grinding possession that ended in a tough layup through contact. That play, more than any other, showcased their composure under pressure. When the final buzzer sounded, Ginebra emerged victorious, 94-91, in what I’d easily call one of the most thrilling finishes I’ve seen this season. Looking back, it’s clear that key individual efforts—much like Vinoya’s 29-point outburst—shaped the outcome. But what stood out to me even more was the collective heart both teams displayed. Games like this aren’t just wins or losses; they’re statements. And if this series has taught us anything, it’s that resilience, much like talent, can be the difference between a good team and a great one.