San Miguel vs. Ginebra: Another classic semi-finals battle

Another battle for the ages is expected between the San Miguel Beermen and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel as they begin their highly anticipated best-of-seven semi-finals series on Wednesday, June 25, at 7:30 PM at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

These two PBA giants are no strangers to the big stage, and once again, they find themselves on a collision course—with pride, legacy, and redemption on the line.

Both teams are aiming to bounce back from recent disappointments. San Miguel, which fell short in last season’s Philippine Cup Finals against the Meralco Bolts, came out with vengeance in the quarterfinals, eliminating the Bolts in just one game to make a strong statement. Ginebra, on the other hand, is determined to reclaim its spot in the Finals after back-to-back heartbreaks in the last two conferences—both times at the hands of the grand slam-chasing TNT Tropang 5G. Their quick dispatch of the Converge FiberXers in the quarters was proof that they mean business.

Statistically, this series is shaping up to be a tight one. Both teams carry identical 9-3 win-loss records across the elimination and quarterfinal rounds. San Miguel is leading the scoring department with 108.0 points per game, along with 53.3 rebounds and 21.4 assists. Ginebra counters with 96.4 points, 49.0 rebounds, and 25.0 assists per game—showcasing their ability to share the basketball and find the open man.

The Beermen also have a slight edge in shooting efficiency, hitting 47.3% from the field compared to Ginebra’s 45.0% across their last 12 outings.

Once again, the Beermen will rely on their cornerstone, eight-time MVP “The Kraken” June Mar Fajardo. The dominant big man is having another stellar campaign and could very well add a ninth MVP award to his legendary résumé. Already the Best Player of the Conference in one leg this season, Fajardo remains the top candidate to win the award again in the Philippine Cup.

He won’t be carrying the load alone. San Miguel’s battle-tested core—Marcio Lassiter, and playing assistant coach Chris Ross—brings invaluable experience, while Rodney Brondial, Don Trollano, Jeron Teng, and other key contributors are stepping up and playing inspired basketball as they aim to reclaim the throne.

Meanwhile, Ginebra continues to evolve. Japeth Aguilar has taken full ownership of the team’s leadership mantle, stepping up with maturity and consistency in crucial moments. His leadership has been vital in anchoring the Gin Kings, especially in tough matchups.

Surrounding Aguilar is a new generation of talent led by Rookie of the Year frontrunner RJ Abarrientos, whose energy and confidence have revitalized the squad. The supporting cast—Stephen Holt, Jamie Malonzo, and former PBA MVP Scottie Thompson—has also proven their ability to deliver in big games. And while LA Tenorio may not play the same minutes as before, his presence on the bench and in the locker room continues to serve as a guiding force, backed by the experience of veteran Troy Rosario.

With both teams possessing a mix of championship pedigree, hunger, and individual brilliance, fans are bracing for another memorable chapter in this storied rivalry.

Will this classic collision stretch to the limit and give basketball fans the two greatest words in sports? Game 7!