PBA Season 49 Final Four – It's all about who wants it more

The stage is set for the four teams vying for the most coveted title in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) – the Philippine Cup trophy.

First to enter the fray were the mighty San Miguel Beermen, who secured the top seed after the elimination round.

They easily dispatched the defending champions, Meralco Bolts, in their quarterfinal matchup with a 108-97 victory. The win also served as sweet revenge for their Finals loss a season ago.

Meeting the Beermen in the Final Four is their sister team, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, who wrapped up their own quarterfinal series by defeating the Converge FiberXers in one game, 88-80.

With the two powerhouse teams set to clash once again for a spot on the biggest stage, let’s take a look at the key matchups and possible scenarios in this highly anticipated semifinal battle.

One of the most exciting duels will feature two Gilas Pilipinas standouts: eight-time MVP June Mar Fajardo and the high-leaping Japeth Aguilar.

Fajardo continues to lead the league in statistical points, making him the top contender for the Best Player of the Conference award. A win would not only extend his dominance but also potentially break his own record by becoming a nine-time MVP.

On the other side, Aguilar has been stepping up in recent games, showcasing his leadership to anchor a Ginebra team blending youth and veteran presence—all in pursuit of extending the “Never Say Die” legacy.

While the spotlight will be on Fajardo and Aguilar, the supporting cast from both sides is also expected to play a crucial role. Their contributions could very well determine who earns a ticket to the Finals.

In the past two conferences, Ginebra reached the PBA Finals but fell short both times against TNT Tropang Giga. Meanwhile, San Miguel also appeared in the last two Finals, winning one and losing the other.

In their elimination round clash this season, the Beermen emerged victorious with a 104-93 win. But knowing the Gin Kings and coach Tim Cone, they’re bound to make the necessary adjustments to challenge the Beermen in a full-blown series.

With all weapons ready and both teams well-prepared, this Semifinal showdown is expected to go the distance.

In the other series, it’s a battle of grit and resilience—two teams that overcame twice-to-win disadvantages to secure spots in the Final Four.

The grand slam-seeking TNT Tropang 5G earned their semifinal berth after outlasting the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots in two thrilling, one-point victories—both sealed by clutch free throws from veteran Kelly Williams.

Meanwhile, the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters stunned the NLEX Road Warriors in two games. In Game 1, Jhonard Clarito delivered a monster performance with 20 points and 21 rebounds in a 92-89 win. RoS then completed the sweep with a convincing 103-92 victory.

TNT previously bested Rain or Shine in the eliminations, 111-103, but this semifinal series presents a different dynamic altogether.

The Tropang 5G are chasing their franchise’s first-ever grand slam, while the Elasto Painters are looking to crash the party and pull off another upset.

On paper, TNT holds the advantage—even with key players like Jayson Castro (Governors’ Cup Finals MVP) and Rey Nambatac (Commissioner’s Cup Finals MVP) sidelined due to injury. But the heart and unpredictability of the Elasto Painters cannot be overlooked, especially with head coach Yeng Guiao calling the shots. He’s known for getting the most out of a roster without a clear-cut superstar.

Analysts may predict a four- or five-game series in favor of Tropang 5G, but don’t count out Rain or Shine. With their persistence and belief, they could stretch this series to six—or even go all the way and shock the league with another Finals appearance.

Now that we’ve explored the matchups in both series, the big question remains: Who will make it to the Finals?

Will we see another Ginebra vs. TNT showdown to continue their rivalry at the top?

Will San Miguel reclaim the Philippine Cup throne?

Or will the Elasto Painters rain on everyone’s parade?