PBA: Jayson Castro not surprised by McCullough’s big performance

TNT Tropang 5G’s Chris McCullough during a game vs Meralco Bolts in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—Back then, when Chris McCullough donned the San Miguel Beer jersey, he gave TNT serious headaches.

But that was then. Now, it’s McCullough who’s making things easier for TNT in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals.

With big shoes to fill as a replacement for the injured Bol Bol, McCullough redeemed himself after a lackluster debut for the Tropang 5G on Wednesday in Game 4 by delivering 42 points, highlighted by big shots in the fourth quarter, and 11 rebounds two nights later.

READ: PBA: Chris McCullough finally finds groove for TNT in pivotal win

Jayson Castro, who was part of the TNT team that lost to McCullough and San Miguel in the 2019 Commissioner’s Cup Finals, offered high praise for his new teammate.

“We all know what C-Mac can bring. That’s an advantage he has, he already knows the PBA,” Castro told the Inquirer.

“He’s such a good teammate… We know what he can bring, that’s why he was the replacement for Bol Bol. He’s already proven.”

On the brink of another finals appearance, Castro said there’s no reason for TNT not to keep its foot on the gas pedal in a close out Game 6 against Meralco on Sunday.

“As long as we defend their plays well and we execute our roles on defense and match their energy, I think we have a big chance to win.”