MANILA, Philippines – After defeating Barangay Ginebra 94-91 in a sweep in the PBA 48th Season Commissioner’s Cup on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena, San Miguel secured a trip to the finals.

In Game Three, Bennie Boatwright had yet another outstanding effort, especially in the third quarter, to defeat the now-dethroned champs in a rare sweep that was witnessed by 15,126 fans—the greatest attendance of the conference—at the site.

In a best-of-seven series, San Miguel will now play either Magnolia Chicken Timplados or Phoenix Super LPG in an attempt to win a second Philippine Cup, which they last claimed last year.

In a way, SMB exacted revenge for losing to Ginebra in the Governors’ Cup the season before, when it was swept.

Ginebra had not lost the series by sweep since falling to Rain or Shine in the Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals of 2015–16.

The last time Ginebra lost a best-of-five series was against Alaska in the Commissioner’s Cup finals in 2012–13.

For the Beermen, Boatwright finished with 26 points and 13 rebounds. In an 8-0 run that put San Miguel ahead 64-61, he made two three-pointers.

They had the highest lead of the game, leading 90-79, thanks to a three-pointer from CJ Perez after Jericho Cruz scored 17 points and made a crucial jumper at the 5:30 mark in the game.

The last time Ginebra lost a best-of-five series was against Alaska in the Commissioner’s Cup finals in 2012–13.

For the Beermen, Boatwright finished with 26 points and 13 rebounds. In an 8-0 run that put San Miguel ahead 64-61, he made two three-pointers.

In the thrilling PBA Commissioner’s Cup matchup, the San Miguel Beermen showcased their composure and resilience, securing a significant lead with a score of 90-79. The turning point came with a pivotal three-pointer from CJ Perez, complemented by Jericho Cruz’s impressive 17 points and a crucial jumper at the 5:30 mark in the game. Coach Jorge Gallent, reaching the finals for the first time in his current role, attributed their success to the players’ unwavering composure, particularly during the critical moments of the game. This poise, according to Gallent, proved to be a decisive factor not only in this game but also in the previous encounters where they emerged victorious.

As the Beermen now aim for their 29th title, key players contributed to their success. Marcio Lassiter delivered a solid performance with 14 points, while June Mar Fajardo showcased his versatility with 11 points and an impressive 10 rebounds, adding depth to the team’s efforts.

On the opposing side, despite the loss, Barangay Ginebra had standout performances from Scottie Thompson, who finished with 17 points, nine rebounds, and five assists. Importantly, Tony Bishop contributed significantly with a remarkable 25 points and eight rebounds, displaying his offensive prowess and determination to keep Ginebra competitive.

The match not only highlighted the Beermen’s pursuit of another championship but also showcased the competitive spirit of both teams. As the series unfolds, the narrative becomes even more captivating, with each game shaping the journey toward the Commissioner’s Cup title. The resiliency of the players, the strategic decisions made by the coaches, and the thrilling performances on the court contributed to the excitement surrounding the league. Fans eagerly anticipate the subsequent games as the Beermen and Ginebra continue to vie for supremacy in one of the most closely contested PBA seasons in recent memory.

Scores at the end of the match

San Miguel with 94 for the win

Individual scores: Boatwright 26, Cruz 17, Lassiter 14, Fajardo 11, Perez 11, Trollano 6, Teng 6, Ross 3, Trollano 0, Brondial 0.

Barangay Ginebra with 91

Individual scores: Bishop 25, Thompson 17, Aguilar 12, Malonzo 10, Standhardinger 10, Tenorio 8, Pringle 5, Ahanmisi 2, Pinto 2.

Scores per quarter

21-18, 43-42, 75-69, 94-91