In a gripping encounter, the San Miguel Beermen surged ahead in their PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinal series against Barangay Ginebra, taking a 2-0 lead with a 106-96 triumph in Game 2. The Beermen are now just one victory away from ousting the reigning champions and securing their spot in the finals.
San Miguel, demonstrating resilience and tactical acumen, managed to fend off the Gin Kings for the second time in the series, underlining their determination and skill in high-pressure situations. Marcio Lassiter’s pivotal three-pointer propelled the Beermen to a 94-88 lead, a crucial moment that set the tone for the remainder of the game.
Despite Jamie Malonzo’s efforts to narrow the gap with a three-pointer of his own, San Miguel’s import Bennie Boatwright dominated the court, showcasing his scoring prowess and giving the Beermen a significant 99-93 advantage as the clock ticked down.
Boatwright, the star of the night, delivered an impressive performance, amassing 38 points, nine rebounds, and two assists. His synergy with teammates June Mar Fajardo and CJ Perez, who contributed 17 points each, was instrumental in steering San Miguel closer to victory. Fajardo’s defensive prowess was also on full display, securing 14 rebounds and a career-high six blocks.
On the other side, Tony Bishop and Jamie Malonzo led the charge for Barangay Ginebra. Bishop put up a valiant fight with 25 points, while Malonzo, continuing his scoring streak, registered 27 points along with a well-rounded contribution across the board.
As the series progresses, the tension and excitement reach new heights, with San Miguel poised to clinch their first Commissioner’s Cup finals berth since 2019. The critical Game 3, set for Sunday, will determine whether the Beermen can seal their place in the finals or if Barangay Ginebra can stage a comeback.