San Miguel Beermen clinched a fourth straight Philippine Cup Finals berth by defeating Barangay Ginebra 101‑88 in Game 6 of the semifinals. CJ Perez exploded for a career‑high 41 points, including a league‑record 30‑point quarter, while the Beermen shot 48% and limited Ginebra to 38% to secure the series.
Game Highlights: 101‑88 Victory
The Beermen dominated from the opening tip, establishing a lead that Ginebra could not overcome. San Miguel’s balanced attack combined efficient perimeter shooting with strong interior play, resulting in a decisive 13‑point margin and sealing the finals spot.
CJ Perez’s Record‑Breaking Performance
Perez delivered a historic night, scoring 41 points on perfect 12‑of‑12 shooting in the first quarter—a new league record for points in a single period. He added seven three‑pointers, five steals and twelve rebounds, fueling San Miguel’s momentum and forcing Ginebra’s defense into disarray.
Series Context and Turnaround
Entering Game 6, the Beermen led the series 3‑2 after a narrow 115‑109 win in Game 5, where they survived a 17‑point surge by Ginebra. The decisive Game 6 win highlighted San Miguel’s ability to adjust defensively and capitalize on offensive opportunities.
Key Moments from Games 5 and 6
Game 5 featured a late Ginebra rally that tested the Beermen’s composure, while Game 6 saw San Miguel tighten its defense, holding Ginebra to just 38% shooting. Ginebra’s point guard Paul Lee contributed 22 points, but San Miguel’s execution in the paint and on the perimeter proved overwhelming.
Implications for the Finals
With the semifinals concluded, San Miguel will meet TNT Tropang Giga in the Philippine Cup Finals. The upcoming series pits San Miguel’s veteran poise and youthful explosiveness against TNT’s high‑octane guard‑driven offense.
Upcoming Clash with TNT Tropang Giga
Coach Leo “Coach” Mamerto emphasized the need for sustained intensity, especially on defense, as TNT presents a contrasting style. The Beermen’s experience in pressure situations will be a critical factor in the championship showdown.
Impact on Barangay Ginebra
The loss ends Ginebra’s campaign despite its storied history and “Never Say Die” reputation. The team will regroup, evaluating rotations and defensive schemes ahead of the Commissioner’s Cup, where a fresh import could rejuvenate their title aspirations.
Fan Reaction and Future Outlook
Fans witnessed a dramatic shift from Ginebra’s passionate chants to a hushed arena after the final buzzer. The Beermen’s triumph adds another chapter to the storied rivalry and sets the stage for a finals series that could further cement their legacy or herald a new era of competition.
