SMB ends ROS streak win and Win a Spot for Final Four

In a thrilling game at the Philsports Arena, San Miguel Beer (SMB) demonstrated their superiority by defeating Rain or Shine’s fearsome hot streak 127-122 in the PBA 48th Season Commissioner’s Cup. The second-seeded Beermen, directed by Coach Jorge Gallent, organized a spectacular third-quarter rally, compiling 42 points thanks to the fantastic play of Bennie Boatwright, who scored 13 of his 41 points during this critical time. Breaking loose from a 67-67 halftime tie, SMB benefited from open shooters, particularly Jericho Cruz, who contributed heavily with his three-point shooting ability. The Beermen’s combined efforts clinched their usual place in the PBA semifinals.

Coach Gallant underlined the team’s tactical adjustment in the second half: “In the first half, Rain or Shine was obstructing the lane, and we were pushing ourselves to lay-ups. They learned how to kick the ball out in the second half, and Jericho [Cruz] and the guards were effective at shooting threes. “Great team offense.”

San Miguel is preparing for a best-of-five series against the victor of Barangay Ginebra vs. Northport. The Beermen extended their winning streak to six games while halting Rain or Shine’s outstanding six-game run leading to the playoffs.

Chris Ross and Marcio Lassiter played critical roles, hitting back-to-back threes in an 8-0 run that helped San Miguel break a 71-71 deadlock. Despite the Elasto Painters’ late comebacks, the Beermen maintained a comfortable lead and advanced to the semifinals.

Bennie Boatwright’s stunning 41-point outburst was supplemented by Jericho Cruz’s 20 points, which helped the Beermen win. As San Miguel prepares for the next level of the tournament, the team’s cohesive play and innovative changes during critical times strengthen their position as a serious competitor in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. The final result showed San Miguel’s dominance: 127-122 in an exciting match, demonstrating Beermen’s perseverance and brilliance.