WATCH: Interview with Best Player Marcio Lassiter and Coach Jorge Gallent [Dec. 3, 2024]

Marcio Lassiter drained a clutch corner jumper with just 2.6 seconds remaining, propelling San Miguel to a thrilling 107-104 victory over Phoenix as the Beermen launched their title-retention campaign in the PBA’s 49th Season Commissioner’s Cup on Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Lassiter’s game-winner capped an impressive comeback from a staggering 16-point deficit, delivering yet another painful blow to the Fuelmasters, who once again struggled to maintain a sizeable lead.

His jumper from the left corner not only solidified the victory but also highlighted the contributions of newly acquired former Terrafirma players Juami Tiongson and Drei Cahilig, who played pivotal roles in the Beermen’s rally from an 87-71 fourth-quarter hole.

San Miguel’s resurgence spoiled an impressive outing from Tyler Tio, whose lay-up with 14.7 seconds remaining gave Phoenix a precarious 106-105 edge.

CJ Perez led the charge for San Miguel, scoring a team-high 18 points on 7-for-16 shooting, with 14 points coming in a blistering first quarter. Lassiter, celebrating his son’s birthday, added 15 points, continuing to come through in crunch time as a seasoned veteran.

Tiongson and Cahilig ignited a decisive fourth-quarter run, showcasing their impact in their first game since being traded from Terrafirma in exchange for Terrence Romeo and Vic Manuel. Of the two ex-Dyip players, it was actually Cahilig who made the loudest statement, sinking three consecutive three-pointers that slashed the deficit to 87-80.

Cahilig finished with 12 points, all coming from beyond the arc in the fourth quarter, with his last three drawing San Miguel closer at 98-95. Tiongson contributed eight points, including the crucial game-tying three that followed immediately after Cahilig’s final splash from deep.