MANILA, Philippines – San Miguel Beer delivered a commanding performance in Game 2 of the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup semifinals, overpowering Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, 100–83, to level their best-of-seven series at 1–1. The result, achieved at Ninoy Aquino Stadium, showcased the Beermen’s championship pedigree as they executed adjustments on both ends of the floor following their narrow defeat in the series opener. The victory not only reestablished equilibrium in the series but also reaffirmed San Miguel’s depth and adaptability, despite the limited mobility of their cornerstone big man, June Mar Fajardo.

Unlike in Game 1 where the Beermen faltered in the final stretch, San Miguel seized control early and never relented. Veteran sniper Marcio Lassiter provided the early spark, knocking down four three-pointers in a scorching start that caught Ginebra’s defense off guard. Lassiter finished with 16 points, his perimeter shooting setting the tone and forcing the Gin Kings into a scramble for defensive matchups. San Miguel shot a highly efficient 48.8% from the field, a stark improvement from their 32.1% shooting clip in the opening game.

San Miguel’s strategy was noticeably more fluid and team-oriented in Game 2. With June Mar Fajardo seeing limited action due to a calf strain—logging just 17 minutes with two points and seven rebounds—the team turned to its supporting cast to generate offense. Moala Tautuaa stepped into the void, providing an interior presence while CJ Perez, Don Trollano, Jericho Cruz, and Kris Rosales contributed double-digit scoring efforts. The balanced offensive distribution kept Ginebra guessing, while Perez’s slashing and transition play ensured constant pressure on the defense.

The Beermen’s performance on the boards was equally crucial. They outrebounded Ginebra 49–38, demonstrating control over both ends of the court. Their rebounding dominance led to more second-chance points and limited Ginebra’s opportunities for fast-break conversions. It was a notable turnaround from Game 1, where Ginebra had managed to claw back from a significant deficit to steal the win late.

On the Ginebra side, the team struggled to replicate the late-game heroics that defined their Game 1 success. Their offense stagnated, and despite shooting 42.5% from the field, they lacked the fluidity and rhythm that typically characterize their attack. San Miguel’s improved defensive rotations and tighter perimeter coverage limited Ginebra’s options, while their inability to counter San Miguel’s early shooting surge left them in catch-up mode for most of the game.

Ginebra’s key contributors were unable to find consistent momentum. While individual efforts surfaced in spurts, they were unable to mount sustained offensive sequences. Moreover, San Miguel’s bench outplayed their Ginebra counterparts in energy and productivity. The Gin Kings’ rotation, usually a source of depth and composure, appeared overwhelmed by San Miguel’s faster pace and off-ball movement.

Head coach Leo Austria’s adjustments proved decisive. With Fajardo’s status uncertain before tip-off, Austria opted for a more versatile rotation, relying on quick ball movement and outside shooting to offset the lack of a dominant interior presence. This approach paid off, allowing San Miguel to control the tempo and keep Ginebra from executing its preferred half-court sets.

The result also underscored San Miguel’s strategic resilience. After the Game 1 disappointment, the Beermen made the necessary corrections—not only tactically but also in terms of effort and focus. Their sharper rotations on defense, better spacing on offense, and collective rebounding effort highlighted a team unwilling to concede momentum in a tightly contested series.

Looking ahead to Game 3 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, both teams face pressing questions. For San Miguel, the priority will be managing Fajardo’s recovery while sustaining the level of play seen in Game 2. The team’s ability to generate offense from multiple sources gives them flexibility, but they will likely need their MVP back at full strength as the series intensifies.

For Barangay Ginebra, head coach Tim Cone will need to reassess his team’s defensive schemes and find ways to reignite the offense. Greater discipline on closeouts and improved perimeter defense will be necessary to contain San Miguel’s shooters. Offensively, more assertive play from their guards and consistent involvement from their frontcourt will be key to avoiding another deficit.