The Kings won against the Road Warriors, who played without Selden | PBA Semi-Finals
San Miguel Beer and Barangay Ginebra are two of the most famous and successful teams in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). Their rivalry extends back several decades, and fans always eagerly anticipate their encounters.
After a lengthy wait, the two clubs finally meet again in the playoffs. This time, it’s in the PBA Governors’ Cup, the season’s final conference. Both teams aim for a berth in the finals and a chance to win the title, so the stakes are high.
Barangay Ginebra had the third seed going into the playoffs, but it didn’t stop them from dominating their opening game against the NLEX Road Warriors. Although missing two important players, Japeth Aguilar, and LA Tenorio, due to injury, the Gin Kings defeated the Road Warriors by a score of 127-93.
Kings have secured a spot in the PBA Semi-Finals, facing the Beermen
NLEX, the sixth seed entering the playoffs, was already at a disadvantage owing to the absence of Wayne Selden, their American import, who was sidelined due to injury. The Road Warriors struggled to keep up with Ginebra’s offensive potency without Selden, especially with Justin Brownlee leading the charge.
Brownlee, Ginebra’s resident import, led the team with 31 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists. He was helped by teammates Chris Standhardinger and Jamie Malonzo, who both scored 20 points. The Kings controlled the game from start to end, outscoring the Road Warriors each quarter and opening up a 34-point lead.
Despite their strong performance, Ginebra head coach Tim Cone praised his players for not taking the Road Warriors lightly, especially given that they were without an import. For their sorrow, Cone extended his condolences to NLEX and its head coach, Frankie Lim.
“It’s the worst fate somebody could have,” Cone remarked. “That would have been very different if Wayne had been present. He’s a hottie.”
Following this win, Ginebra advanced to the semifinals to meet the San Miguel Beermen. San Miguel, who placed second in the elimination round, dominated their first playoff game against the Converge FiberXers, winning 121-105.
It sets up a highly anticipated playoff matchup between Ginebra and San Miguel, two of the PBA’s most popular teams. They last met in the playoffs in the 2019 Governors’ Cup quarterfinals, when Ginebra beat San Miguel in one game. This time, though, the series will be a best-of-five, and both sides will be keen to win.
Both clubs’ fans are looking forward to this game, and the atmosphere will likely be electrifying when they meet on the floor. The stakes are high, and both teams must bring their A-game to proceed to the finals and win the championship.
PIERCE BATTLE FOR THE PBA SEMI-FINALS | PBA GOVERNORS' CUP
Prepare yourself for the showdown! Two strong competitors square off in a fight for talent, strength, and strategy. Who will triumph, and who will be left in tears? Take advantage of the drama and excitement of this historic duel. Get some popcorn and prepare to root for your favorite team!
