“May chance pa naman kami”: June Mar Fajardo stays optimistic after Game 1 loss

For three quarters, TNT Tropang Giga seemed to have Game 1 of the Philippine Cup Finals firmly under control. The Tropang Giga dictated the tempo, executed their game plan with precision, and built what looked like a comfortable lead against the San Miguel Beermen. But as is often the case in championship basketball, early dominance is rarely enough to secure victory. When the pressure mounted in the fourth quarter and the margin for error shrank, it was TNT’s composure, discipline, and timely execution that ultimately carried the day.

TNT survived a furious late rally by the defending champions to escape with a 96–91 win in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The victory gave the Tropang Giga a critical 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven series and immediately set the tone for what promises to be a hard-fought, tightly contested championship matchup.

Offensively, TNT leaned on a balanced team effort, with six players scoring in double figures. The Tropang Giga consistently punished San Miguel whenever defensive lapses occurred, ensuring they stayed ahead despite the Beermen’s relentless push. While the scoring was evenly distributed, veteran forward Kelly Williams quietly anchored TNT’s performance on both ends of the floor. The former PBA Most Valuable Player finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists — numbers that only partially reflected his overall impact. Williams’ calm leadership and ability to make crucial plays under pressure helped keep TNT in control during San Miguel’s late surge.

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For the Beermen, record-holding PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo continued to assert his dominance in the paint, delivering a monster 24-point, 17-rebound performance. Despite his valiant efforts, San Miguel fell short in the end. Still, Fajardo remains optimistic about the series, acknowledging that a single game does not determine the championship.

THE KRAKEN:

In the wake of San Miguel’s Game 1 loss to TNT in the PBA Philippine Cup Finals, 9-time league MVP June Mar Fajardo says its going to be a long series.

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“Long series ‘to. ‘Di magiging madaling series ‘to para sa’min. May chance pa naman kami. Malayo pa ‘yan. So kailangan naming mag-bounce back. Kailangan naming mag-regroup,” Fajardo said after the game.

The Beermen found themselves trailing by as much as 19 points in the first half, but they showed why they are the reigning champions. With improved defensive pressure, sharper execution, and a renewed sense of urgency, San Miguel clawed their way back in the second half, eventually cutting TNT’s lead to a single possession in the final moments. The rally, while ultimately not enough, demonstrated the team’s resilience and ability to adjust mid-game.

Fajardo drew inspiration from his team’s comeback effort and believes San Miguel can carry that momentum into Game 2.

“Yong bigs nila, tumitira sa labas. Ang dami nilang na-shoot na threes and ang laki ng hinabol naming noong first half. Talo kami sa first half pero panalo kami sa second half. Bawi na lang,” he said, highlighting the adjustments his team made in the second half and the lessons they will carry forward.

Game 2 is scheduled for Friday, January 23, once again at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The Beermen will look to respond and level the series, while TNT will aim to build on its early momentum and tighten its grip on the championship. With both teams showcasing their depth, talent, and championship pedigree, fans can expect another thrilling encounter as the Philippine Cup Finals continues.

As the series unfolds, attention will likely remain on TNT’s veteran leadership, San Miguel’s ability to adjust defensively, and how stars like Fajardo and Williams influence the series’ pivotal moments. One thing is certain: the battle for the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup is just beginning, and Game 2 promises to be another showcase of skill, strategy, and sheer determination.

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