WATCH: Bennie Boatwright Highlights [San Miguel vs Magnolia Finals G5 | Feb. 11, 2024]

San Miguel turned the tide in the PBA Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup Finals with strategic adjustments, seizing a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series after a 108-98 victory over Magnolia on Sunday, February 11 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Jericho Cruz’s expanded offensive role and Simon Enciso’s unexpected start were pivotal as San Miguel surpassed the century mark, following two games where they averaged just 82.5 points.

Cruz’s scorching performance included eight three-pointers, leading to a playoff career-high of 30 points, along with 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals.

His clutch shooting in the fourth quarter secured a significant lead that thwarted Magnolia’s repeated comeback attempts.

“Para sa akin, just move on na. Hindi na natin maibabalik ‘yun eh. Preparing lang ako on what’s coming and itong game na to. My focus is to play this game and after this, for the next game,” said Cruz in reference to his one-game suspension due to incurring 5 technical fouls this conference.

“Pag masama ‘yung laro ng isa, there’s always one person that’s next man-up. ‘Yun lang ginagawa namin once we’re given a chance to play on the court talagang we just have to provide. I’m so happy na maganda ‘yung nilaro ko tapos panalo pa kami. Medyo speechless ako ngayon parang nasa era pa ako. Job’s not finished yet,” he added.

This win places San Miguel on the brink of their record-extending 29th title in PBA history.

Enciso finished with a conference-high 15 points, in addition to 5 boards and 3 dimes, contributing significantly to San Miguel’s win.