Jordan Heading shrugs off Finals MVP talk ahead of PBA Philippine Cup finals

TNT Tropang Giga once again proved why it remains one of the PBA’s most formidable franchises, booking a return trip to the Philippine Cup Finals after surviving a tense 99–96 victory over the Meralco Bolts in Game 5 of their best-of-seven semifinal series at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, January 14.

The hard-earned win not only closed out the series but also propelled TNT to its fourth consecutive finals appearance across conferences, a remarkable run that further cements the Tropang Giga’s status as a modern-day powerhouse in the league. In a matchup defined by momentum swings, defensive grit, and clutch shot-making, TNT leaned on its composure and experience to outlast a relentless Meralco side that refused to go quietly.

At the center of TNT’s latest triumph was Jordan Heading, who delivered a masterful performance when it mattered most. The Filipino-Australian guard poured in a game-high 31 points, anchoring the Tropang Giga’s offense while showcasing his ability to score from all three levels. Heading repeatedly answered Meralco’s rallies with timely baskets, steady playmaking, and confident leadership, underscoring why he has quickly become one of TNT’s most reliable offensive weapons.

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Since being acquired from the Converge FiberXers in early 2025 in exchange for Mikey Williams, Heading has seamlessly embraced a larger role within the Tropang Giga system. His Game 5 outing was another reminder of how pivotal that move has been for TNT, particularly in a conference where roster depth and guard play often determine championship outcomes.

As TNT prepares for the Philippine Cup Finals, Heading enters the series under considerable spotlight. In the franchise’s last two title runs, the Finals Most Valuable Player honors went to guards Jayson Castro and Rey Nambatac—both of whom played instrumental roles in TNT’s championship victories in the Governors’ Cup and Commissioner’s Cup. Naturally, comparisons have followed, but Heading has made it clear that such narratives hold little weight for him.

Jordan Heading and TNT coach Chot Reyes after the stunning Game 5 win over Meralco to return to the #PBAFinals. @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/agNU1TjHfF

— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) January 14, 2026

“Honestly, I couldn’t really care less about the Finals MVP. I think comparison is the thief of joy. If I compare myself to Jayson Castro or Rey Nambatac, I will have a lot of sleepless nights. I’m just going to be Jordan Heading and enjoy the ride,” Heading said in the pre-match press conference.

With Castro sidelined for several months due to a torn patellar tendon and Nambatac only recently returning from a sprained ankle, Heading has taken on the responsibility of serving as TNT’s primary floor general. His steady presence has helped stabilize the Tropang Giga during a challenging stretch, allowing the team to maintain its championship aspirations despite key absences.

For Heading, however, individual accolades remain secondary to the ultimate goal.

“It’s really about the championship. That’s what on my mind. There is a reason why those Finals MVPs have been guards. I think our offense is always initiated by our lead guard. Whoever has the hot hands in games will be different. We have a lot of weapons on our team, there’s a lot of guys to cover and that’s even without Jayson. Hopefully, Roger Pogoy comes back soon as well,” he added.

That depth has been a defining feature of TNT’s sustained success, with multiple players capable of stepping up on any given night. As the Tropang Giga continue their title pursuit, that balance—combined with Heading’s poise and leadership—will be crucial against a finals opponent that is still to be determined.

The 2025 PBA Philippine Cup Finals are set to tip off on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. With momentum on their side and championship pedigree to lean on, TNT will look to convert another deep playoff run into silverware, fully aware that their resilience, cohesion, and collective belief will be tested at the highest level once more.

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