PBA: The Gin Kings’ Fight Back; A Season of Determination and Growth

Jul 9, 2025

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The 2025 PBA season has been quite the rollercoaster for Barangay Ginebra San Miguel. Known for their passionate fanbase and never-say-die attitude, the Gin Kings have faced some tough moments early on but are showing signs of regrouping and charging back stronger.

The season didn’t exactly start the way Ginebra fans hoped. In their opening game against Meralco, the team fought hard but fell short in the closing minutes. The game was tight, with Ginebra tied at 71 with just under four minutes left. But Meralco went on an 8-0 run that Ginebra couldn’t answer, leading to a disappointing 82-73 loss. Adding to the drama, head coach Tim Cone was ejected late in the game, which could have rattled the team’s composure. Still, the loss seemed to light a fire under the squad.

What followed were a couple of encouraging wins that lifted the team’s spirits. Ginebra edged out Phoenix with a 119-112 victory, thanks in large part to Scottie Thompson’s energy and leadership on the floor. That win wasn’t just about points on the board — it was a signal that Ginebra was finding its rhythm. The chemistry between the veterans and the younger players started to click, something coach Tim Cone has been emphasizing throughout.

One of the season’s most thrilling moments came in the Manila Clasico clash against Magnolia. Down by 10 points in the fourth quarter, many expected Ginebra to fold. But true to their resilient reputation, the Gin Kings staged a gutsy comeback, ultimately pulling off an 85-81 victory. Japeth Aguilar was a beast in that game, racking up a double-double with points and rebounds. Alongside him, Troy Rosario and Stephen Holt contributed crucial baskets that turned the tide. That win was a huge boost, not only for the standings but also for the team’s confidence.

Looking ahead, Ginebra’s path is clear: build on this momentum and keep tightening their teamwork. The blend of experience from players like Scottie Thompson and Japeth Aguilar with the youthful energy of Jamie Malonzo and Troy Rosario gives Ginebra a balanced roster. Tim Cone’s coaching, known for its tactical mastery and ability to get the best out of his players, remains the steady hand guiding the team.

Of course, the PBA is never easy. Every game is a battle, and Ginebra knows they have to stay focused week in and week out. But if there’s one thing their fans can be sure of, it’s that Barangay Ginebra will fight until the final buzzer—true to their “never say die” spirit.

In summary, while the Gin Kings had a rocky start this season, they’ve shown resilience and a clear path forward. Their recent wins and team chemistry improvements are encouraging signs that Ginebra is ready to make some noise in the rest of the tournament. For fans, the excitement is back, and the hope for another championship run is alive and well.

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