Brgy. Ginebra def San Miguel, 108-102 [PBA S49 Govs’ Cup | Aug. 27, 2024]

San Miguel seeks its third consecutive victory as it faces off against sister team Barangay Ginebra in the featured matchup of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup on Tuesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Both teams enter the game with contrasting fortunes from their most recent outings.

The Beermen shook off a sluggish first half, propelled by the remarkable performance of import Jordan Adams, who poured in 50 points to lead San Miguel to a commanding 128-108 triumph over an all-Filipino Blackwater Bossing squad on Sunday.

In stark contrast, the Gin Kings began their season with a disappointing 73-64 loss to the rejuvenated Rain or Shine Elasto Painters during the league’s opening out-of-town game held in Candon City, Ilocos Sur last Saturday.

These two storied franchises have a long-standing history of fierce competitions, whether during the regular season, playoffs, or finals.

It’s no surprise that San Miguel coach Jorge Gallent is bracing for a formidable challenge as the Beermen prepare to clash with the Gin Kings at 7:30 p.m.

Brgy. Ginebra will again be missing some key players, as wingmen Jamie Malonzo and Jeremiah Gray continue to recuperate from their respective injuries.

Scottie Thompson, the Season 47 Most Valuable Player, has returned to the lineup after dealing with back issues since late last season; however, he struggled, scoring just four points on 1-of-10 shooting.

Justin Brownlee is expected to spearhead Ginebra’s efforts, as the team showcased its offseason acquisitions Stephen Holt and Isaac Go in Candon City.

Holt, who was obtained in a trade for Christian Standhardinger and Stanley Pringle, made an impactful debut for Ginebra, contributing 13 points and nine rebounds. Meanwhile, Go faced challenges, managing only two points and eight rebounds on a dismal 1-of-14 shooting night.