PBA Philippine Cup Semifinals: epic battles unfold on June 25 

The intensity of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals reaches fever pitch on Wednesday, June 25, as two highly anticipated Game 1 matchups ignite the best-of-seven series at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Basketball fans are in for a treat as four of the league’s powerhouse teams begin their quest for a Finals berth.

SEMIS STAGE IS SET

The semis are here and it’s about to get wild as four teams battle it out in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup starting June 25 on the Pilipinas Live app, PBA Rush, and RPTV!#PBASeason49 #PBA50 #PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/Q49AU9oYql

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) June 24, 2025

Game 1: TNT Tropang Giga vs. Rain or Shine Elasto Painters (5:00 PM)

The curtain rises with a tantalizing clash between the TNT Tropang Giga and the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. This series is a rematch of their Commissioner’s Cup semifinal battle, which TNT won, but this time around, the stakes are even higher in the prestigious All-Filipino conference.

TNT, despite navigating the latter stages of the elimination round and quarterfinals without their key import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and nursing injuries to local stars like Jayson Castro and Rey Nambatac, has shown remarkable resilience. 

They defied a twice-to-beat disadvantage in the quarterfinals to upset Magnolia, proving their depth and championship pedigree. Led by the stellar play of Calvin Oftana and Roger Pogoy, and with Jordan Heading providing a timely boost, the Tropang Giga are determined to keep their Grand Slam bid alive.

However, Rain or Shine, under the tactical guidance of Coach Yeng Guiao, has found its stride. They completed a “twinkill” in the quarterfinals, overcoming NLEX in consecutive games to secure their spot. 

The Elasto Painters are known for their gritty defense, relentless pace, and balanced attack, with key contributions from Leonard Santillan and a host of versatile players. Coach Guiao has expressed confidence in his team’s familiarity with TNT, believing their previous encounters will aid in their strategic approach. This matchup promises a bruising, fast-paced affair, with both teams eager to draw first blood.

Game 1: San Miguel Beermen vs. Barangay Ginebra San Miguel (7:30 PM)

The main event of the evening features a titanic showdown between two of the league’s most storied franchises: the San Miguel Beermen and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel. This classic rivalry, rich in history and dramatic encounters, is expected to deliver fireworks right from the opening tip.

The San Miguel Beermen, the top seed in the tournament, enter the semifinals as strong contenders. 

Led by their undisputed “Kraken” June Mar Fajardo, who continues to dominate the paint, and surrounded by a potent array of perimeter threats like CJ Perez and Chris Ross, the Beermen have shown why they are perennial championship favorites. They dispatched Meralco in the quarterfinals with a convincing performance, highlighting their offensive firepower and defensive prowess.

Facing them are the crowd darlings, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel. The Gin Kings, fueled by the “Never Say Die” spirit and the strategic brilliance of Coach Tim Cone, secured their semifinal spot by overcoming Converge in a tough quarterfinal battle. 

Ginebra boasts a formidable lineup featuring the likes of Scottie Thompson, Christian Standhardinger, and Jamie Malonzo, whose athleticism and clutch play can turn the tide of any game. Their passionate fan base is sure to fill the SM Mall of Asia Arena, providing an electrifying atmosphere for this highly anticipated Game 1.

Both San Miguel and Ginebra possess deep rosters and extensive playoff experience, setting the stage for a series that could very well go the distance. Expect a physical, emotionally charged contest as these two titans vie for early supremacy in their best-of-seven duel.

Basketball fans across the Philippines will be glued to their screens, eager to witness the opening salvos of what promises to be an unforgettable PBA Philippine Cup semifinal round.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.