San Miguel, Magnolia eye third win in Wednesday duel

It’s only fitting that on Wednesday, April 16, two of the most storied franchises in Philippine basketball will collide in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup, as the league continues to celebrate its golden anniversary.

The Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots and the San Miguel Beermen will square off at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in a battle for early supremacy. Both unbeaten, both hungry, both aiming to seize their third win—and with it, the solo lead in the standings.

These two titans began their campaigns with convincing victories last April 5 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. San Miguel dispatched the NLEX Road Warriors, 98–89, while Magnolia cruised past the Blackwater Bossing, 106–84.

On April 9, during the league’s anniversary celebration, both squads stayed perfect. The Hotshots used their signature defense to defeat the Converge FiberXers, 83–71, while the Beermen triumphed over the Meralco Bolts in a retro-themed showdown at the historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum, 110–98.

Now comes the showdown—a clash between two proud franchises that consistently deliver high-stakes battles in the All-Filipino conference.

Magnolia will once again lean on its dynamic and deep guard rotation. Current PBA iron man Mark Barroca anchors a backcourt that features veteran scorer Paul Lee, promising rookie Jerom Lastimosa, and the pesky Peter Alfaro. They’ll be joined by sharpshooter Jerrick Ahanmisi and energy guy Jerrick Balanza.

But it’s not just about the guards. The Hotshots also boast a versatile frontcourt led by Ian Sangalang and Zavier Lucero, with key contributions from Calvin Abueva, Rome Dela Rosa, and the steadily improving Russel Escoto. Magnolia also has depth off the bench with James Laput, stretch forward Joseph Eriobu, and ageless big man Rafi Reavis still providing valuable minutes under head coach Chito Victolero.

San Miguel, meanwhile, continues to ride the dominance of eight-time MVP June Mar Fajardo. But the Beermen’s arsenal doesn’t stop there. CJ Perez remains a lethal two-way threat, backed by the sweet-shooting Marcio Lassiter, power forward Mo Tautuaa, and versatile players like Don Trollano and Juami Tiongson. Kris Rosales, Rodney Brondial, and Andreas Cahilig round out a deep lineup, while assistant playing coach Chris Ross provides leadership and stability. Jericho Cruz is also expected to return soon, further boosting SMB’s rotation.

San Miguel last ruled the All-Filipino conference in 2022. Magnolia, on the other hand, is chasing its first crown since the 2009–10 season—fueling its hunger and drive to reclaim the throne.

Who will come out on top in this battle of giants? With pride, history, and positioning on the line, Wednesday’s game promises fireworks.