Meralco Bolts vs TNT Tropang 5G Prediction & Betting Tips - PBA

Prediction published on 09/01/2026, 01:56  by Ita Emmanuel | Modified on 09/01/2026 at 07:10 in Basketball Predictions

TNT Tropang 5G will look to double down on their bid to reach the PBA Philippine Cup final as they face Meralco Bolts in Game 3 of this best-of-seven semifinal series on Friday. TNT Tropang 5G are leading the series 2–0 and could strengthen their bid with a third straight victory. Here is our prediction.

Meralco Bolts survived the twice-to-beat quarterfinal matchup with higher-seeded Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, winning by an average of 13 points, but have fallen below expectations in this semifinal series against TNT Tropang 5G. 

They surrendered a commanding 16-point first-half lead, eventually falling by five points in Game 1 to TNT Tropang 5G. Luigi Trillo's charges fared even worse in the second leg, losing all four quarters and collapsing to a 109–92 defeat.

TNT Tropang 5G made quick work of their quarterfinal matchup, defeating lower-seeded Magnolia Hotshots 118–109 to advance to the semifinals. Chot Reyes' men are firmly in control of proceedings in this semifinal series holding a 2–0 lead.

The five-time PBA Philippine Cup champions head into this game riding a six-game winning streak. They have defeated Meralco Bolts in their last eight meetings.