A Rare Setback Sparks a Fierce Comeback
For the first time in a decade, the San Miguel Beermen find themselves in unfamiliar territory—missing the playoffs. Their abrupt exit in the Commissioner’s Cup, finishing a disappointing 10th in the eliminations, has ignited what could be a furious comeback in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup. With a championship pedigree boasting 29 titles, the Beermen are not accustomed to watching the postseason from the sidelines.
As the Philippine Cup kicks off, all eyes will be on San Miguel as they aim to reclaim their dominance. Their opening match against Robert Bolick and the NLEX Road Warriors on Day 2 promises fireworks. The game is set for 7:30 p.m. at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, marking the return of Coach Leo Austria’s squad to action.
Commissioner’s Cup Collapse: A Wake-Up Call
San Miguel’s last conference performance shocked the league. Despite being the defending champions, the Beermen fell short of expectations, ending with a 5-7 record. Their playoff hopes were extinguished when NLEX, led by import Mike Watkins, defeated Hong Kong Eastern 94-76—creating a tie with Magnolia and nudging San Miguel out of contention.
They joined Blackwater Bossing, Phoenix Super LPG, and Terrafirma Dyip in the unenviable list of teams that failed to make the postseason.
For a team with such a storied legacy, this fall from grace is both unusual and motivating. Coach Austria and his players are undoubtedly looking to make a statement in the all-Filipino conference.
Revisiting the Pain of the Last Philippine Cup
The Philippine Cup has not been kind to the Beermen lately. Despite entering the finals as defending champions and clear favorites, San Miguel was dethroned by the Meralco Bolts, who clinched their first-ever title. The Beermen fell in six games in a stunning best-of-seven finale, leaving a bitter taste they hope to wash away this season.
MVP Race Adds Extra Fuel to the Fire
Beyond team redemption, individual glory is also on the line. The Philippine Cup serves as the final battleground for the 2025 PBA Most Valuable Player award. Leading the charge is San Miguel’s towering center June Mar Fajardo, aiming to extend his record with a ninth MVP title.
Fajardo, the reigning Governors’ Cup Best Player, will be locked in a tight race with NLEX’s Robert Bolick and Commissioner’s Cup BPC Arvin Tolentino of NorthPort. TNT’s Calvin Oftana is also a strong contender. With top-tier performances expected, each game will carry weight beyond the standings.
The Road Ahead: High Stakes, Higher Expectations
San Miguel’s journey in Season 49 isn’t just about winning games—it’s about restoring their identity as the league’s most dominant force. The Beermen are motivated by past disappointment, a hunger for redemption, and the relentless drive to add another title to their storied franchise.
As the season unfolds, expect high-intensity basketball, MVP-caliber performances, and a fired-up Beermen team determined to rewrite the narrative.