San Miguel def Terrafirma, 106-88 [PBA S49 Comm’s Cup | Dec. 13, 2024]

Defending champion San Miguel aims to regain its footing in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup with the addition of a new import.

Torren Jones, a formidable 6-foot-9 frontliner with a wealth of experience in international leagues, is stepping in as the team’s import, taking over from Quincy Miller after the Beermen’s rocky 1-2 start in this mid-season conference.

Miller, who valiantly held the fort for San Miguel while the team searched for its primary import, will return to his original role as one of the Beermen’s two reinforcements in the East Asia Super League.

Jones, who recently showcased his skills with Abejas de Leon in the Mexican LNBP league, has been activated just in time for action on Friday, as the Beermen face off against the struggling Terrafirma (0-4) at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Tip-off is set for 5 p.m., with both teams eager to halt their respective downward spirals.

San Miguel’s title defense has not unfolded as planned, with Miller and prolific scorers June Mar Fajardo and CJay Perez, along with new acquisitions Juami Tiongson and Andreas Cahilig, barely scraping by Phoenix with a 107-104 victory before succumbing to NLEX, 104-99, and then to Rain or Shine, 103-94.

Coach Jorge Gallent’s squad finds itself in an unusual position, currently tied for eighth in the standings. The upcoming duel on Friday the 13th presents a timely opportunity to kickstart their campaign, especially against a Dyip squad that has yet to find its footing in the conference.

An intriguing subplot will feature Tiongson and Cahilig competing against their former team, while Dyip’s Vic Manuel and Terrence Romeo will face off against their previous squad for the first time since the significant trade prior to this import-heavy tournament.