TNT Tropang Giga’s Mikey Williams crowned PBA Governor’s Cup Finals MVP

In a thrilling conclusion to the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals, Mikey Williams led TNT Tropang Giga to their second championship in two seasons and was named Finals MVP for the second time in his career. 

Williams’ scintillating performance in Game 6 saw him score a season-high 38 points, highlighted by a remarkable nine three-pointers against Barangay Ginebra at the Smart Araneta Coliseum Friday, April 21.

After scoring 35 points in the first three quarters, Williams experienced a brief moment of setback. However, he regained his momentum and nailed his ninth three-pointer of the night, precisely when the Kings were making a comeback with a 16-8 run, taking a 93-92 lead. With just 1:15 remaining in the game, Williams’ long-range three-pointer gave TNT the lead, and they held on to it until the end.

Williams’ heroics together with import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, saw the Tropang Giga overcome a tough Barangay Ginebra side, who were bidding to win their third straight Governors’ Cup title. 

Williams’ incredible consistency throughout the series saw him average 22 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists while connecting on an impressive 31 of his 69 three-point attempts in the series, nine of which came in the crucial Game 6.

This was a special night for Williams, who said, “First off, all glory to God. It’s Him.” 

The former G Leaguer continued, “Praying and staying in the gym all day. Everything I do is about staying in the lab. It’s just the hard work I put in.”

“I owe it to my team to stay aggressive because we’re playing a tough team in Ginebra.” 

Coach Jojo Lastimosa also praised Williams, saying, “Without his 38 points, we would not survive this game,” he added.

This was a truly remarkable performance from Williams, who has now won Finals MVP twice in his career. He clinched his maiden victory during the 2021 Philippine Cup, which was held in a semi-bubble format in Bacolor, Pampanga amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

This time, Williams had to do it in front of a predominantly Ginebra crowd of 13,588, making his performance all the more impressive.

Williams’ remarkable achievement places him in elite company, as he became just the 18th player in PBA history to win Finals MVP at least twice. His outstanding consistency, incredible shooting, and willingness to lead from the front made him the clear choice for the Honda-PBA Press Corps Finals MVP.

TNT’s victory over Barangay Ginebra sees them continue their recent dominance in the PBA, having now won back-to-back championships. 

Williams was at the heart of both of those triumphs, and his performances in the finals will live long in the memory of all those who witnessed them.