As I settled into my usual spot to watch Game 2 of this historic Ginebra versus San Miguel rivalry, I couldn't help but reflect on that incredible Game 6 performance that brought us here. That 88-87 thriller wasn't just a basketball game—it was pure theater, the kind of moment that reminds me why I've dedicated my career to analyzing this beautiful sport. The veteran guard from Ateneo, celebrating his birthday in the most dramatic fashion possible, essentially saved Ginebra's season with what I'd call one of the most clutch performances I've witnessed in recent PBA history.
Tonight's Game 2 unfolded with a different energy entirely, though the ghosts of that previous encounter certainly lingered in the arena. The final score read 94-90 in favor of San Miguel, a result that levels this series but tells only part of the story. What struck me immediately was the defensive intensity from both sides—this wasn't the free-flowing offensive showcase some fans might have expected. San Miguel came out with something to prove after nearly seeing their championship hopes evaporate in Game 6, and it showed in their defensive rotations and physicality.
I've always believed that championship series are won through adjustments, and San Miguel's coaching staff clearly did their homework. They limited Ginebra's transition opportunities, something that proved crucial in their Game 6 collapse. The numbers tell part of the story—San Miguel held Ginebra to just 8 fast break points compared to the 15 they conceded in their previous meeting. But what the stats don't show is how methodical San Miguel was in their half-court execution, particularly in the third quarter where they built what proved to be an insurmountable lead.
Speaking of that third quarter, San Miguel went on a 28-15 run that essentially decided the contest. June Mar Fajardo, who finished with 24 points and 14 rebounds, dominated the paint in a way we haven't seen since the eliminations. His footwork against Ginebra's double teams was nothing short of masterful—I counted at least three occasions where he passed out of double teams for open three-pointers. That's the mark of a veteran who understands time and score, something you can't teach in practice.
What surprised me though was Ginebra's response, or lack thereof. They seemed content to settle for perimeter jumpers instead of attacking the basket, shooting just 38% from the field through three quarters. Scottie Thompson, usually so reliable in big moments, struggled to find his rhythm and finished with just 11 points on 4-of-14 shooting. As someone who's watched his entire career unfold, I can tell you this was uncharacteristic—the player who saved their season in Game 6 was nowhere to be found tonight.
The fourth quarter provided some drama that nearly matched their previous encounter. Ginebra went on a 12-2 run in the final four minutes, cutting what was once a 15-point deficit down to just 2 with 38 seconds remaining. The crowd came alive in a way that reminded me of that magical Game 6, and for a moment, I thought we might witness another miracle. But basketball, like life, doesn't always deliver storybook endings. A crucial turnover by Justin Brownlee with 15 seconds left—something I haven't seen from him in clutch situations—sealed their fate.
Looking at the broader picture, this series now stands at 1-1, mirroring the 2019 finals where these same teams battled through seven grueling games. History tells us that Game 3 will be pivotal—the winner of the third game in a 1-1 series goes on to win the championship roughly 72% of the time based on my analysis of PBA finals over the past decade. What encourages me about Ginebra despite tonight's loss is their resilience. Teams that survive elimination games like their Game 6 victory tend to carry that fighting spirit throughout the series.
From my perspective having covered this rivalry for years, San Miguel's victory tonight came down to three key factors that I believe will determine the eventual champion. Their bench outscored Ginebra's 35-18, they won the rebounding battle 48-42, and perhaps most importantly, they committed only 11 turnovers compared to Ginebra's 17. In a series this tight, those extra possessions make all the difference.
As the teams head into what promises to be a critical Game 3, I'm left wondering if we're witnessing the birth of another classic chapter in this storied rivalry. The momentum has shifted back to San Miguel, but something tells me the Gin Kings aren't done yet. That Game 6 performance proved they have the heart of champions, and in my experience, that's something that doesn't just disappear after one tough loss. What makes this rivalry special isn't just the talent on display, but the way these teams respond to adversity. If history is any indication, we're in for another dramatic twist in what's shaping up to be an unforgettable series.