WATCH: San Miguel vs Brgy. Ginebra Closing Moments [PBA S48 PH Cup | Apr. 5, 2024]
Don Trollano and Jericho Cruz delivered clutch performances, helping San Miguel secure a close 95-92 victory against Brgy. Ginebra at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday.
Despite almost letting go of an 18-point lead, the Beermen were able to rely on Trollano and Cruz to maintain their perfect record in the PBA SDeason 48 Philippine Cup, holding on to the top spot with a 4-0 standing.
Trollano’s five-point burst and Cruz’s crucial shot in the final moments proved to be the difference maker as San Miguel survived Ginebra’s late surge. With NLEX and NorthPort closely tailing behind at 4-1, the Beermen knew the importance of securing this win to stay ahead in the standings.
Not to be overlooked were June Mar Fajardo and Moala Tautuaa managing to stay on the court despite early foul trouble, each contributing significantly to the team’s victory. However, it was Trollano and Cruz who ultimately sealed the deal when the Kings threatened to steal the game at 91-93.
Cruz’s game-winning shot with 33 seconds remaining added to his total of eight points, along with two assists, two steals, and a rebound. CJ Perez’s double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds, combined with Fajardo’s 14 points and 10 boards, further solidified the Beermen’s performance.
Tautuaa and Terrence Romeo also made key contributions with 12 and 11 points, respectively, in a hard-fought victory over Ginebra, who now find themselves tied for fourth place with Blackwater Bossing. Despite the narrow escape, San Miguel Beer continues to show their resilience and determination to maintain their winning streak in the Philippine Cup.