RONDAE Hollis-Jefferson was quick to dismiss the notion that TNT only relies on him to win championships.
In fact, Hollis-Jefferson is confident that the Tropang 5G can get the job done in the PBA Philippine Cup without him and complete a historic Grand Slam at the expense of the San Miguel Beermen.
"I believe we can win, with or without me," Hollis-Jefferson said after attending Game 1 of the championship series which TNT claimed, 99-96, last Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
No doubt, Hollis-Jefferson was the huge reason why TNT ruled three of the last five conferences, including this season's Governors' Cup and Commissioner's Cup titles that set the PLDT franchise up for a potential treble.
TNT's 0-3 start in the all-Filipino raised doubts on the Tropang 5G's ability to accomplish their quest for a historic grand slam and observers once again insist the team can't do it without help from the ex-NBA player.
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But coach Chot Reyes' troops defied the odds and silenced doomsayer by turning things around with gritty wins while dealing with various injuries to their core players.
The arrival of Jordan Heading and the return of Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser from injury also helped.
"I believe if anything, playing with me made them more ready," Hollis Jefferson said. "Them seeing how I prepare and how much I care, how much I give my all, I think that has rubbed off on these guys. Being banged up, wanting to win, I think it shows with these moments of getting grindout wins."
Hollis-Jefferson has been in the country since last month for a series of camps in Metro Manila and the provinces dubbed "RHJ on Tour 2025." (JT)
