Wednesday Matches
(Rizal Memorial Coliseum
5 p.m. – Magnolia vs Converge
7:30 p.m. – Meralco vs San Miguel
THE importance of the clash between Meralco and San Miguel Beer (SMB) cannot be emphasized enough for Wednesday’s PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup eliminations.
To begin with, this matchup signifies their initial encounter in the league’s premier conference since the Bolts secured their first title at the expense of the Beermen in April of the prior year.
Moreover, these two esteemed teams will reignite their rivalry on the very anniversary of the PBA’s 50th year, taking to the court of the historic basketball hub in Manila, the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
There’s an element of nostalgia in the 7:30 p.m. event, as the top-ranked Bolts (2-0) and the Beermen (1-0) are set to don jerseys reminiscent of those worn by their respective franchises during the old MICAA era in the 1970s.
“This is a highly esteemed match,” remarked SMB coach Leo Austria.
“We’re thrilled, we’re privileged to be competing against San Miguel as part of our 50th anniversary,” expressed Meralco coach Luigi Trillo.
The headline performers in the main event following the 5 p.m. opener featuring Magnolia (1-0) and Converge (1-1) aim to build on their early achievements in the five-day-old tournament.
The Bolts pulled off a thrilling 91-89 comeback against the FiberXers before decisively defeating Terrafirma, 118-80, to take an early lead. The Beermen showcased their prowess with a 98-89 victory in their first game against NLEX.
“It’s a chance for us since we’re facing the team that defeated us in the last All-Filipino finals,” stated Mr. Austria.
“Our franchises hold a wealth of traditions, and when we compete against one another, there’s a profound respect involved. Following the last All-Filipino, we know that they (SMB) will be returning strong. They haven’t achieved wins recently, so coach Leo has that squad prepared, and they will be ready. They may be the oldest team, but they’re also the most seasoned,” added Mr. Trillo.
To celebrate this “golden” milestone, the PBA is providing complimentary items and discounted ticket rates for the matches on April 9. Commissioner Willie Marcial announced that fans born in 1975, the PBA’s founding year, will receive free entry to the RMC. Additionally, seats in the lower box can be purchased for only P50 each, while spots in the general admission section are available for P30.
Notes: As they pursue a grand slam, TNT Tropang 5G has signed free agent Simon Enciso to strengthen their backcourt in the absence of Jayson Castro. This move marks a return for Mr. Enciso, who played for the PLDT franchise for one season before joining his most recent team, San Miguel. Mr. Enciso is expected to assist chief playmaker Rey Nambatac during the absence of Mr. Castro, who is sidelined due to a season-ending injury. — Olmin Leyba
