The San Miguel Beermen have once again proven why they’re the kings of Philippine basketball, snagging their 30th PBA championship with a dominant 107-96 victory over TNT Tropang 5G in Game 6 of the 2025 Philippine Cup Finals. This isn’t just another trophy—it’s a record-extending milestone that cements their legacy as the most decorated franchise in PBA history. But how did they pull it off? Let’s break down the sleuthing.
The Comeback Kings
San Miguel’s path to glory wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. After a shaky performance in the Commissioner’s Cup, the Beermen had to regroup, reassess, and come back stronger. Remember their heartbreaking loss to Meralco in last year’s Philippine Cup? Yeah, that stung. But instead of wallowing, they used it as fuel. This championship isn’t just about adding another trophy to the cabinet—it’s about proving they’re still the team to beat.
Head coach Leo Austria deserves major props for keeping this squad sharp. He’s the mastermind behind their relentless defense and strategic adjustments. And let’s not forget June Mar Fajardo, the Big Boss himself. His 24-point explosion in Game 6, shooting a ridiculous 11-of-12 from the field, was a masterclass in dominance. Fajardo’s resurgence is a reminder that even legends can reinvent themselves.
The TNT Rivalry: A Story of Dominance
San Miguel vs. TNT? It’s like the NBA Finals of the PBA. The Beermen now hold a 6-1 record in championship matchups against TNT, and this latest win just adds to their legendary rivalry. What’s their secret? It’s not just about star power—it’s about teamwork. Players like CJ Perez and Jericho Cruz stepped up when it mattered most. Cruz’s Game 4 performance, where he dropped 26 points in a 105-91 blowout, was a game-changer.
But here’s the thing: San Miguel doesn’t rely on just one hero. They’re a well-oiled machine, with everyone contributing. Whether it’s Fajardo’s post moves, Perez’s clutch shots, or Cruz’s scoring bursts, they’ve got depth. And that’s what makes them so dangerous.
The Grand Slam Denied
TNT Tropang 5G had their eyes on the Grand Slam—winning all three PBA conferences in a single season. But San Miguel had other plans. By taking down TNT in the Philippine Cup, they not only added another title to their collection but also dashed their rivals’ dreams. It’s a brutal reminder that in the PBA, consistency is key.
San Miguel’s ability to control the tempo and execute their game plan flawlessly was the difference-maker. They exploited TNT’s defensive weaknesses, turning them into easy buckets. And let’s not forget their wire-to-wire 104-93 victory over Barangay Ginebra earlier in the tournament. That win showed they’re still the team to beat when they’re firing on all cylinders.
A New Era for the Beermen
This championship isn’t just about the past—it’s about the future. San Miguel is evolving, adapting, and staying ahead of the game. They’re not just relying on their legacy; they’re building something new. And with this win, they’ve sent a clear message: the road to PBA glory still runs through the Beermen.
So, what’s next? More titles, more dominance, and more sleuthing to uncover their next move. Because in the world of Philippine basketball, San Miguel is always one step ahead. And that’s why they’re the kings.
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