PBA Philippine Cup Semifinals: Key players to watch out for these matchups

The PBA Philippine Cup semifinals are heating up, and with Game 2 of both series set for Friday, June 27, 2025, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, all eyes will be on the players who can turn the tide. After intense Game 1 battles, these athletes will be crucial in their teams’ bids to gain a commanding lead or equalize their respective series.

KAMPIHAN NA!

The PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup semifinals cast is officially complete.

San Miguel Beer will be locking horns against Barangay Ginebra, while TNT is set to clash with Rain or Shine. (: PBA Images) | via @romwelanzures pic.twitter.com/2uwsiX1jWB

— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) June 21, 2025

Here are the key players to keep an eye on:

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel vs. San Miguel Beermen (5:00 PM)

For Barangay Ginebra San Miguel:

• Scottie Thompson: The do-it-all guard is the heart and soul of Ginebra. His all-around game (scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and defense) was on full display in their Game 1 comeback. If Ginebra is to build on their lead, Thompson’s energy and clutch plays will be paramount. He’s proven he can still deliver even while battling cramps, a testament to his “never-say-die” spirit.
• Japeth Aguilar: Aguilar’s resurgence has been a major factor for Ginebra in this conference. He anchored both ends of the floor in Game 1, putting up 18 points and providing crucial rim protection. His ability to score inside and defend June Mar Fajardo will be vital in Game 2.
• Jamie Malonzo: Malonzo’s athleticism and scoring prowess make him a constant threat. His contributions, especially in transition and on the offensive glass, were key in Ginebra’s Game 1 surge. Look for him to attack the basket and potentially connect from beyond the arc.
• Troy Rosario / Raymond Aguilar / Ben Adamos: Coach Tim Cone mentioned how the bench bigs, particularly Raymond Aguilar and Ben Adamos, stepped up in Game 1 to help defend June Mar Fajardo when Japeth Aguilar was in foul trouble. Their collective effort in containing the Kraken will be crucial for Ginebra’s success. Troy Rosario, a recent acquisition, also provides a versatile scoring and rebounding option.

For San Miguel Beermen:

• June Mar Fajardo: Despite a quiet scoring night in Game 1 (6 points), Fajardo still grabbed a staggering 19 rebounds. The “Kraken” remains the league’s most dominant force. San Miguel’s offensive struggles in Game 1 were partly due to his limited scoring, and they will need him to reassert his dominance in the paint on offense to even the series.
• CJ Perez: Perez was the leading scorer for San Miguel in Game 1 with 21 points. His explosive drives and ability to create his own shot will be essential for the Beermen to overcome Ginebra’s defense. If he can maintain his aggressive scoring, it will open up opportunities for his teammates.
• Marcio Lassiter: One of the league’s premier shooters, Lassiter had a cold shooting night in Game 1, contributing only 3 points. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down crucial triples is a game-changer for San Miguel. Expect him to be more aggressive in looking for his shot in Game 2.
• Juan Tiongson / Jericho Cruz: These guards provide additional scoring punch and playmaking for the Beermen. Their ability to hit outside shots and drive to the rim will be important in alleviating pressure from Perez and Fajardo.

Rain or Shine Elasto Painters vs. TNT Tropang 5G (7:30 PM)

For Rain or Shine Elasto Painters:

• Leonard Santillan: As one of Rain or Shine’s key bigs, Santillan’s performance on both ends of the floor will be critical. He needs to assert himself inside against TNT’s frontcourt and contribute consistently on offense and rebounding.
• Andrei Caracut / Adrian Nocum / Jhonard Clarito: These guards lead Rain or Shine’s “buwis-buhay” basketball. Their relentless energy, aggressive defense, and ability to score in bunches are vital for the Elasto Painters. They will need to be efficient from the field and limit turnovers against TNT’s fast-paced game.
• Beau Belga: The veteran big man provides leadership, toughness, and timely contributions for Rain or Shine. His physical play and veteran smarts will be crucial in disrupting TNT’s rhythm and setting the tone for the Elasto Painters.
• Caelan Tiongson: A versatile forward, Tiongson adds another dimension to Rain or Shine’s attack. His ability to score, rebound, and defend multiple positions will be important in containing TNT’s dynamic wings.

For TNT Tropang 5G:

• Roger Pogoy: Pogoy was outstanding in Game 1, hitting a career milestone and leading TNT with 28 points. His offensive explosion proved how dangerous he can be. If he can maintain that level of scoring efficiency, Rain or Shine will have a tough time.
• Calvin Oftana: Oftana is a vital cog in TNT’s offensive system, capable of scoring from inside and out. His versatility and ability to create mismatches will be key for TNT to maintain their offensive flow.
• Jayson Castro: The veteran “The Blur” continues to be a crucial playmaker and scorer for TNT. His experience and ability to control the tempo of the game are invaluable, especially in tight situations.
• Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser / Kelly Williams: This frontcourt duo brings size, athleticism, and defensive presence for TNT. Their ability to protect the rim, rebound, and contribute on offense will be important in countering Rain or Shine’s physicality.
• Rey Nambatac / Jordan Heading: These new additions to TNT’s roster provide additional depth and scoring options in the backcourt. Their contributions off the bench or as starters will be crucial in keeping TNT’s offense flowing throughout the game.

Game 2 promises to be another thrilling day of PBA action as these players step up to lead their teams in the high-stakes Philippine Cup semifinals.

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