Beermen take commanding 2-0 semis series edge over Gin Kings

In a compelling showdown at the Mall of Asia Arena, San Miguel took control of the court and secured a commanding 106-96 victory over Brgy. Ginebra in Game Two of the PBA 48th Season Commissioner’s Cup semifinal series.

Bennie Boatwright, CJ Perez, and Marcio Lassiter showcased their prowess with pivotal shots in the final moments, propelling the Beermen to a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series on Friday night.

The stage is set for a potential clincher as SMB aims to dethrone the reigning champions in Game Three on Sunday at the same venue.

June Mar Fajardo’s stellar performance on both offense and defense, coupled with Jeron Teng’s impactful contributions, bolstered San Miguel’s quest for their 29th league title.

The Beermen set the tone early with an impressive 10-0 run and maintained their advantage as their star players delivered standout performances.

“We just want to start strong because we knew Ginebra will come out fighting. I just told the boys to try to dictate the tempo of the game and match their energy which came out very good for our start,” said SMB coach Jorge Gallent during the post-game presser.

Boatwright’s came out with his usual numbers of of 38 points and nine rebounds, highlighted by a crucial three-pointer that extended San Miguel’s lead to 99-93 with only 1:43 remaining in the game.

Prior to Boatwright’s clutch triple, Lassiter also made his own version, giving San Miguel a 94-88 lead as they successfully countered every Brgy. Ginebra run in the final moments of the game.

Perez contributed 17 points and seven rebounds, while Fajardo delivered an outstanding performance with 17 points, 14 rebounds, and a career-high six blocks.

Teng displayed his best game in a Beermen uniform with seven points and two assists in just eight minutes of action.

On the opposing side, Jamie Malonzo led the Gin Kings with 27 points but despite leveling the score at 83-83 midway through the fourth quarter, they were unable to make critical plays when it mattered most.

The scores:

San Miguel 106 – Boatwright 38, Fajardo 17, Perez 17, Lassiter 16, Teng 7, Trollano 5, Cruz 4, Tautuaa 2, Ross 0, Brondial 0.

Brgy. Ginebra 96 – Malonzo 27, Bishop 25, Ahanmisi 13, Thompson 9, Standhardinger 9, Pringle 6, Pinto 5, Aguilar 2, Tenorio 0.

Quarterscores: 23-21, 43-46, 76-74, 106-96.