GAME HIGHLIGHTS
FULL GAME REPLAY
This Sunday, a high-stakes clash is set to unfold at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium as the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters take on the San Miguel Beermen in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 p.m., and both teams are gunning for critical wins to improve their standings.
San Miguel, currently holding a 3-2 record, is determined to rebound from a surprising 97-107 loss to the previously winless TNT Tropang Giga. Meanwhile, Phoenix aims to build momentum from their recent victory and even out their record to 3-3 — a major psychological boost in this season-ending tournament.
Coaches’ Insights: Caution Meets Confidence
Jamike Jarin: “We’re Facing a Giant”
Phoenix coach Jamike Jarin is fully aware of the challenge his team faces. “San Miguel has the best lineup in the PBA,” he admitted, singling out eight-time MVP June Mar Fajardo as a near-unstoppable force.
Referring to San Miguel’s recent defeat, Jarin warned that a wounded team like the Beermen is especially dangerous: “They’re coming off a loss, they’ve had a week to rest and regroup. They’ll be ready.”
Jarin also emphasized the need to control the game’s tempo. “The pace of the game will be key. The faster you play against San Miguel, the better your chances are. We’ll be ready by Sunday.”
Leo Austria: “We Learned Our Lesson”
On the other side, SMB head coach Leo Austria acknowledged that complacency played a role in their loss to TNT. “There was a false sense of security. We underestimated a struggling team, and they outworked us,” Austria admitted.
Austria believes the loss was a wake-up call, stressing that Phoenix cannot be taken lightly. “Their record doesn’t reflect their true potential. If we don’t go the extra mile, this could turn into a 50-50 game.”
Key Players to Watch
June Mar Fajardo – The Towering Threat
Arguably the most dominant player in Philippine basketball history, Fajardo is averaging 19.4 points and 12.8 rebounds per game. He remains the anchor for SMB on both ends of the court.
CJ Perez – The Firestarter
CJ Perez has been equally vital, averaging 24.0 points per game. His explosiveness and ability to create shots make him a constant threat.
Supporting Cast – Deep and Dangerous
Veterans like Marcio Lassiter, Don Trollano, and Juami Tiongson add significant firepower and depth to San Miguel’s lineup — making defensive adjustments even more challenging for Phoenix.
Phoenix’s Strategy: Speed, Defense, and Discipline
Despite the odds, Jarin is not backing down. He acknowledges San Miguel’s strength but believes that smart defensive execution and controlling the game’s pace could tip the scales.
“We know we can’t stop Fajardo entirely, but we’ll try to limit their overall game. Everyone needs to contribute, especially on defense,” Jarin said.
What’s at Stake?
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San Miguel Beermen: A win would lift their record to 4-2, solidifying their spot among the top contenders.
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Phoenix Fuel Masters: A victory would bring them to an even 3-3, providing a much-needed boost and proving they can compete with league heavyweights.
Sunday’s matchup isn’t just another regular game — it’s a test of resilience for San Miguel and a proving ground for Phoenix. With pride, playoff positioning, and momentum on the line, fans can expect a thrilling and hard-fought battle between two determined squads.