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Tag: Barangay Ginebra San Miguel

  • PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup imports: Veterans, newcomers set to headline title chase 

    PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup imports: Veterans, newcomers set to headline title chase 

    The countdown to the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup has entered its final stretch, and with every team now unveiling its reinforcement, the race for the season-ending championship is beginning to take shape.

     

    When the conference opens on July 10 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, all 13 participating teams—including guest club Macau Giant Pandas—will parade imports who comply with the league’s 6-foot-6 height limit. The field features a familiar blend of proven PBA stars, former NBA players, and first-time reinforcements looking to make an immediate impact.

     

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel


    Leading the returning cast is Justin Brownlee, whose résumé in the league remains unmatched among active imports. The four-time PBA Best Import returns after steering the Gin Kings to the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup championship, where they outlasted TNT Tropang 5G in a grueling seven-game Finals series. Brownlee also powered Ginebra to its most recent Governors’ Cup title in 2022, earning his second Best Import award during that campaign.

     

    TNT Tropang 5G

     

    Defending Governors’ Cup champion TNT enters the tournament with a different reinforcement as Rondae Hollis-Jefferson continues his recovery. The Tropang 5G have turned to former NBA forward Darius Days, who was originally slated to play for TNT in the 2024 Governors’ Cup before Hollis-Jefferson decided to return. Since then, Days has helped the Illawarra Hawks capture a National Basketball League championship in Australia.

     

    Rain or Shine Elasto Painters

     

    Rain or Shine is banking on continuity by bringing back Aaron Fuller, who guided the Elasto Painters to the semifinals of last season’s Governors’ Cup before eventually bowing to TNT. Fuller returns after his latest stint in Mexico.

     

    NLEX Road Warriors

     

    NLEX will also keep a familiar face in DeQuan Jones, who rejoins the Road Warriors under new head coach Jimmy Alapag. The former Orlando Magic forward first suited up for NLEX midway through last season as Myke Henry’s replacement and now returns to a squad that topped the elimination round of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup before its playoff run ended in the quarterfinals against TNT.

     

    Converge FiberXers

     

    Converge welcomes back one of the league’s most explosive scorers in Jalen Hudson. Returning to the PBA for the first time in three years, Hudson previously played for TNT in the 2023 Governors’ Cup, highlighted by a spectacular 56-point, 12-rebound, four-assist performance against his current team.

     

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    Magnolia Hotshots

     

    Magnolia has signed American forward KJ Buffen, who played collegiate basketball at the University of Alabama at Birmingham before building a professional career in Finland, New Zealand, and most recently Indonesia with RANS PIK.

     

    Blackwater Bossing

     

    Blackwater reinforced its roster with Kentrell Barkley, an accomplished import who arrives after winning the Most Valuable Player award in both the Indonesian Basketball League and the Vietnam Basketball Association. Barkley has also captured championships in Vietnam and Taiwan and now joins the Bossing under interim coach Pat Aquino.

     

    Meralco Bolts

     

    Meralco will finally get a full conference with Jordon Varnado, who is already familiar with the Bolts after helping the team reach the quarterfinals of the 2025 Basketball Champions League Asia.

     

    San Miguel Beermen

     

    San Miguel acquired George King after his release from Blackwater, bringing back one of the most prolific scorers to have played in the PBA. During last season’s Governors’ Cup, King erupted for a career-high 64 points for the Bossing before continuing his overseas career with stops in Lebanon, Egypt, Iraq, Taiwan, and Germany.

     

    Terrafirma Dyip

     

    Terrafirma introduces Justin Strings, a Sacramento State product who has played professionally in Canada, Germany, Argentina, and Uruguay.

     

    Phoenix Fuel Masters

     

    Phoenix turns to former NBA swingman BJ Johnson, who previously suited up for the Orlando Magic, Sacramento Kings, and Atlanta Hawks before most recently playing for Lokomotiv Kuban in Russia’s VTB United League.

     

    Titan Ultra Giant Risers

     

    Expansion club Titan Ultra Giant Risers has entrusted its campaign to Tirrell Brown, whose professional career has taken him across Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Uruguay.

     

    Macau Giant Pandas

     

    Guest team Macau Giant Pandas, formerly known as the Black Knights, will be reinforced by De’Vondre Perry. The Temple University product heads to the PBA after competing in Belgium, the Dominican Republic, and Germany, where he last played for SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt.

     

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  • After ending Ginebra’s drought, RJ Abarrientos and Troy Rosario embrace new challenge 

    After ending Ginebra’s drought, RJ Abarrientos and Troy Rosario embrace new challenge 

    For most players, winning a championship comes with a chance to slow down, celebrate, and finally catch their breath.

     

    For RJ Abarrientos and Troy Rosario, it meant packing their bags for national team duty.

     

    Just days after helping Barangay Ginebra end its three-year title drought in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup, the two Gin Kings traded championship festivities for Gilas Pilipinas practice, joining the national squad as preparations intensified for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.

     

    The transition from champions to national team players happened almost instantly.

     

    Rather than extending the celebration following Ginebra’s dramatic seven-game Finals victory over TNT, Abarrientos and Rosario reported for Gilas duties on June 22, becoming part of a squad now preparing for difficult road assignments against New Zealand and Australia.

     

    For Abarrientos, the decision required little thought.

     

    “Unang-una, hindi ka mapapag-no kapag tinawag ka ng Gilas Pilipinas at para maglaro sa bayan,” he said.

     

    “There’s no reason para magpahinga at ilaban itong window na ito.”

     

    The star guard has emerged as one of the brightest young faces in Philippine basketball. After earning Best Player of the Conference honors and playing a major role in Ginebra’s title run, he could have easily opted for recovery after a physically demanding season.

     

    Instead, he viewed the call-up as another opportunity.

     

    “Hindi lahat ng players ay nabibigyan ng pagkakataon na magsuot ng jersey at i-represent ang kanilang bansa,” Abarrientos said on playing for Gilas.

     

    “Very blessed, thankful ako na part pa rin ako dito sa Gilas with the other guys.”

    Rosario’s path to the Final 12 carried a different significance.

     

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    The veteran forward had previously served as a practice player during earlier qualification windows, waiting patiently for an opportunity to earn a roster spot. This time, the opportunity arrived.

     

    “Sobrang blessed kasi I was part of the Gilas two windows na practice player and to be called up for the Final 12 ay isang malaking karangalan,” Rosario said.

     

    His promotion came at a time when many players would still be enjoying the aftermath of a championship run.

     

    Instead, Rosario quickly shifted gears.

     

    “Medyo nag-e-enjoy pa ako sa pagse-celebrate ng championship sa Ginebra,” Rosario said.

    “Pero may call eh. Kailangan kong i-postpone muna ‘yung celebration to focus sa preparation dito sa upcoming window.”

     

    The sacrifice highlights the challenge many Gilas players face—balancing club commitments with the responsibility of representing the country.

     

    Now in Brisbane, Australia, Gilas is undergoing an overseas training camp designed to help the team acclimatize before taking on two of the toughest opponents in the region. The Philippines faces New Zealand in Auckland on July 3 before traveling to Perth for a showdown against Australia on July 6.

     

    For Abarrientos and Rosario, the champagne celebrations have already been replaced by scouting reports, practices, and preparation.

     

    The championship may have been won, but another challenge has already begun.

     

     

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  • Fresh off championship, Scottie Thompson and Nards Pinto pay tribute to Rene Baterbonia 

    Fresh off championship, Scottie Thompson and Nards Pinto pay tribute to Rene Baterbonia 

    Just days after celebrating a championship, Barangay Ginebra stars Scottie Thompson and Nards Pinto found themselves in a far different setting.

     

    Instead of continuing the festivities following the Gin Kings’ Commissioner’s Cup triumph, the two PBA veterans traveled to Talacogon, Agusan del Sur to pay their final respects to the late Ateneo basketball player Rene Baterbonia.

     

    Photos and videos shared online showed Thompson and Pinto visiting Baterbonia’s wake on Tuesday, joining family, friends, and members of the basketball community mourning the loss of one of Mindanao’s promising young talents.

     

    Baterbonia died alongside Nigerian teammate Divine Adili in a drowning incident during a team-building activity in Aurora earlier this month.

     

    Their visit came only days after Thompson and Pinto helped Barangay Ginebra secure the Commissioner’s Cup championship by defeating TNT in a winner-take-all Game 7.

     

    For many, the gesture reflected the close ties that often connect athletes beyond leagues, teams, and levels of competition.

     

    “Thank you so much my brother Scottie and Nards for visiting and paying respect to Bobet and his family,” said Baterbonia’s high school coach Jess Evangelio.

     

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    “We know you should be celebrating your championship today, but nevertheless, you still took the time to stop by and share our grief.

     

    “We are very grateful and very much appreciate your kindness and support,” added Evangelio on social media.

     

    Thompson and Pinto were joined by Thompson’s wife Jinky and actress Sofia Andres as they visited the wake on the eve of Baterbonia’s burial.

     

    The visit carried added meaning given their shared roots. Thompson and Pinto both hail from Davao, where Baterbonia first made a name for himself as a standout player for Ateneo de Davao before continuing his basketball journey at Ateneo de Manila University.

     

    While championships often define careers, Thompson and Pinto’s trip to Agusan del Sur served as a reminder that some moments transcend the game itself.

     

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  • “Kumpleto na career ko”: Troy Rosario cherishes first championship with Barangay Ginebra

    “Kumpleto na career ko”: Troy Rosario cherishes first championship with Barangay Ginebra

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel once again reinforced its reputation as one of the Philippine Basketball Association’s most successful and resilient franchises, defeating TNT Tropang 5G, 88-76, in a winner-take-all Game 7 on Wednesday, June 17, to capture the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup championship.

     

    While much of the spotlight naturally fell on resident import Justin Brownlee and Finals MVP Scottie Thompson, one player quietly delivered the kind of performance that helped tilt the series in Ginebra’s favor. Veteran forward Troy Rosario emerged as one of the Gin Kings’ most valuable contributors throughout the conference, providing timely scoring, rebounding, and defensive versatility whenever his team needed it most.

     

    For Rosario, the championship carried a deeper significance beyond simply adding another title to his résumé. Growing up as a fan of Barangay Ginebra, the 34-year-old forward fulfilled a lifelong dream by winning a championship with the franchise he had always admired.

     

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    “Hindi pa ‘ko magre-retire, pero ngayon pa lang kumpleto na career ko sa pro,” Rosario said in a media interaction.

     

    Rosario’s journey to this moment has been marked by perseverance and patience. After battling injuries that limited his effectiveness in previous conferences, he entered the Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup healthy and determined to make an impact. His presence gave Ginebra another reliable frontcourt option, complementing the team’s established stars while embracing the role asked of him by the coaching staff.

     

    His contributions were particularly evident in the deciding Game 7 against TNT. Rosario delivered one of his best performances of the Finals, finishing with 13 points on an efficient 6-of-10 shooting clip from the field. He also grabbed seven rebounds and dished out an assist, helping Ginebra control the tempo and maintain its advantage during crucial stretches of the contest.

    More importantly, Rosario’s energy and activity on both ends of the floor provided the Gin Kings with stability whenever TNT attempted to mount a comeback. His ability to defend multiple positions and convert key scoring opportunities proved invaluable in a championship-clinching victory that showcased Ginebra’s trademark depth and experience.

     

    Reflecting on the title run, Rosario expressed satisfaction not only with winning another championship but also with finally being able to contribute at full strength after previous injury setbacks.

     

    “Sweet kasi alam ko na hindi ako nakapag-perform sa last Commissioner’s Cup dahil sa injury. I’m happy na ngayon healthy, and nagawa ko ‘yung role ko, And finally, nakuha ‘yung championship na healthy rin,” he added.

     

    Rosario’s strong showing throughout the Finals was significant enough for him to be considered among the leading candidates for the PBA Finals Most Valuable Player award. Although the honor ultimately went to Thompson, Rosario remained focused on the bigger picture — helping Ginebra secure another championship banner.

     

    The veteran forward has enjoyed success at every stage of his basketball career. From winning titles in college and the PBA D-League to capturing gold medals with the Philippine national team in the Southeast Asian Games, Rosario has built an impressive collection of accomplishments. Now, with a second PBA championship to his name and his first wearing the iconic Ginebra colors, he considers this latest achievement among the most meaningful of his career.

     

    “I won championships sa college, sa D-League, at sa SEA Games. Tapos ngayon, pangalawa na sa PBA. I’m happy na nagawa ko ‘to habang malakas pa. And I hope makaisa pa,” Rosario concluded.

     

    As Barangay Ginebra celebrates another championship in its storied history, Rosario’s contributions serve as a reminder that title runs are often built not only on superstar performances but also on the sacrifices and consistency of role players who rise to the occasion. In a Finals series defined by grit, determination, and championship experience, Rosario proved to be one of the crucial pieces in Ginebra’s successful quest for the Commissioner’s Cup crown.

     

     

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  • “No doubt he is the GOAT”: Tim Cone hails Justin Brownlee after PBA triumph

    “No doubt he is the GOAT”: Tim Cone hails Justin Brownlee after PBA triumph

    For years, Justin Brownlee’s greatness in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has been defined by one enduring standard: championships. On Wednesday, June 17, he added yet another defining moment to a legacy that continues to grow into one of the most remarkable careers ever seen in the league.

     

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel defeated TNT Tropang 5G, 88-76, in a decisive Game 7 of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Finals, reclaiming the crown after a hard-fought series and once again affirming their status as one of the league’s most dominant franchises. For Brownlee, the victory marked his seventh PBA championship since first joining the league in 2016—an achievement that places him alone at the top of the all-time list for most successful imports in PBA history.

     

    The win also carried added significance for Ginebra, as it ended a two-year title drought and restored the Gin Kings to familiar championship territory. In a league where dynasties are hard to maintain and success is often fleeting, Ginebra once again proved their resilience on the biggest stage, with Brownlee at the center of it all.

     

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    TNT Tropang 5G had long been considered one of the few teams capable of disrupting Ginebra’s championship rhythm in recent years, having previously denied the Gin Kings in critical playoff moments. But in this winner-take-all showdown, Ginebra flipped the narrative, delivering a composed and physical performance when it mattered most to finally overcome their familiar postseason rival.

     

    A decade after first stepping onto a PBA floor, Brownlee continues to redefine what longevity and sustained excellence look like for an import player in the league. His ability to deliver in high-pressure moments has made him a constant difference-maker for Ginebra across multiple championship runs, solidifying his status as one of the most influential figures in modern PBA history.

    For Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone, there is little debate about Brownlee’s place in basketball history, especially after yet another title-clinching performance.

     

    “I don’t think there’s any doubt that he is the GOAT (Greatest of All Time). Although, there’s always going to be people who think otherwise. I think Michael Jordan is the GOAT, some people think it’s LeBron James or Kobe Bryant, there’s always going to be arguments. But, for me? My opinion, Brownlee’s the GOAT,” Cone said in a media interaction.

     

    Brownlee’s latest championship also saw him surpass Alaska legend Sean Chambers, who previously held the benchmark for import success under Cone with six championships. With seven titles now to his name, Brownlee stands alone atop that historic category, further strengthening his case as the most accomplished import in league history.

     

    Beyond the numbers, Brownlee’s impact has extended far beyond scoring averages and trophy counts. His consistency, leadership, and adaptability have made him a cornerstone of Ginebra’s identity and a fan favorite in one of the most passionate basketball markets in Asia.

     

    As celebrations continue for the Gin Kings, attention will soon shift to another stage where Brownlee remains a vital piece of the puzzle. He is expected to rejoin Gilas Pilipinas as the national team prepares for the next window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers scheduled in July, where he will once again carry the country’s hopes on the international stage.

     

    For now, though, the PBA belongs once again to Barangay Ginebra—and to Justin Brownlee, whose legacy continues to grow with every championship moment.

     

     

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  • John Abis caps memorable rookie campaign with Ginebra championship 

    John Abis caps memorable rookie campaign with Ginebra championship 

    John Abis may have played a limited role during Barangay Ginebra’s championship run, but the rookie forward is savoring every moment of a title experience he waited years to achieve.

     

    Fresh off helping the Gin Kings capture the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup crown, Abis admitted he is still trying to process what it means to become a champion in his first conference in the professional ranks.


    “Di ko alam kung anong mararamdaman ko o anong sasabihin ko. Basta thank you Lord lang eh kasi naramdaman ko to, naranasan ko to na mag-champion dito pa sa PBA,” said Abis.

     

    Ginebra secured the championship after defeating TNT Tropang 5G in a do-or-die Finals showdown, ending a three-year title drought and snapping a string of frustrations in import-laden conferences.

     

    For Abis, the achievement carried added significance. The former University of Perpetual Help Dalta Altas standout had previously fallen short of winning championships during his younger playing days, making his first taste of success even more memorable.

     

    “Sobrang lucky ko kasi nakaramdam talaga ako ng champion and first ko pa, then rookie year ko pa,” he said.

     

    The 23rd overall pick in the 2025 PBA Draft was not among Ginebra’s primary scorers, but he provided valuable minutes throughout the conference and Finals whenever called upon by coach Tim Cone.

     

    Abis finished the Commissioner’s Cup with averages of 2.40 points and 1.70 rebounds per game, while earning praise for his hustle plays, defensive effort, and energy off the bench.

     

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    The 6-foot-3 forward maintained that his focus remains on contributing to the team in whatever role is needed.

     

    “Gusto ko lang makatulong sa team. Always ready lang kapag tinawag ni coach,” said Abis.

     

    The rookie also acknowledged the role of Ginebra’s passionate fan base in the team’s championship campaign. The Never Say Die faithful packed arenas throughout the Finals and provided the support that helped fuel the Gin Kings’ title charge.

     

    “Sa suporta ng NSD, walang makakatalo sa suporta ng NSD dito. Talagang solid silang sumuporta sa amin. Nagpapasalamat talaga kami sobra kasi grabe yung support nila. Grabe yung atmosphere ng NSD,” he said.

     

    As Ginebra begins preparations for the upcoming Governors’ Cup, Abis vowed to continue bringing the same intensity and work ethic that helped him earn a championship ring in his rookie season.

     

    “Same pa rin. Doon pa rin yung hustle ko. Di mawawala yan. Number one yun. Bibigay ko lang yung best ko. One hundred percent best,” he said.

     

    For a player drafted outside the first two rounds and still carving out his place in the league, the first chapter of Abis’ professional career could hardly have gone better. He arrived as a rookie looking for an opportunity. He finished his first conference as a PBA champion. 

     

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  • Game 7 draws record crowd as Ginebra-TNT finals sets new MOA Arena attendance mark 

    Game 7 draws record crowd as Ginebra-TNT finals sets new MOA Arena attendance mark 

    Before a champion could be crowned, Game 7 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals had already secured a place in league history.

     

    The championship showdown between Barangay Ginebra and TNT attracted 24,617 spectators at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, establishing a new all-time PBA attendance record for the venue and underscoring the enduring appeal of one of the league’s biggest rivalries.

     

    The figure eclipsed the previous mark of 23,616, which was set during Game 7 of the 2015-16 Philippine Cup Finals between San Miguel Beer and Alaska.

     

    That contest has long been remembered as the “Beer-acle,” the night San Miguel completed a stunning comeback from a 0-3 series deficit to capture the championship.

     

    A decade later, another winner-take-all battle delivered a historic crowd of its own.

     

    Long before the opening tip, thousands of fans streamed into the Pasay arena, turning the championship decider into one of the most anticipated PBA games in recent memory. 

     

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    The matchup featured two of the league’s most recognizable franchises, with Ginebra chasing another title and TNT looking to defend its crown.

     

    The record turnout reflected more than just the stakes of a Game 7.

     

    It highlighted the continued drawing power of Philippine basketball, particularly when the league’s biggest teams meet on the grandest stage. Fans packed nearly every available seat inside the arena, creating an atmosphere worthy of a championship finale.

     

    While the final result would determine who lifted the trophy, the crowd itself had already become part of the story.

     

    By breaking a record that had survived for nearly ten years, the Ginebra-TNT title decider added another memorable chapter to the PBA’s long history of blockbuster Finals matchups and reaffirmed that, when everything is on the line, fans will always show up for the biggest games.

     

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  • Justin Brownlee claims historic seventh PBA Title as Ginebra completes redemption against TNT 

    Justin Brownlee claims historic seventh PBA Title as Ginebra completes redemption against TNT 

    For years, Justin Brownlee’s greatness in the PBA has been measured by championships. On Wednesday night, he added another chapter to a legacy that may never be matched.


    With Barangay Ginebra defeating TNT Tropang 5G, 88-76, in the winner-take-all Game 7 of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Finals, Brownlee secured his seventh championship since his first PBA title in the league in 2016—a feat that officially places him alone atop the list of the most successful imports in PBA history.

     

    TNT had been the one opponent that managed to crack Ginebra’s championship armor in recent years, denying the Gin Kings multiple opportunities to add to their collection. This time, however, Brownlee and his squad refused to let history repeat itself.

     

    The victory also ended a two-year title drought for Ginebra, restoring the franchise to familiar territory at the top of the league.

     

    A decade after first stepping onto a PBA court, Brownlee continues to redefine longevity and excellence.

     

    “If you told me 10 years ago that I’d still be playing, and for a championship, I probably would not believe you. But I’ve been blessed to play for a great team and great coaches,” Brownlee said.

    The championship completed another remarkable conference for the 38-year-old, who also captured the Best Import award.

     

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    In doing so, he surpassed Alaska legend Sean Chambers, whose six championships under coach Tim Cone stood as the benchmark for imported players for decades.

     

    When Ginebra found itself under pressure late in the Finals, its longtime import delivered some of the most explosive performances of his career.

     

    Facing a crucial Game 5, Brownlee erupted for a career-high 54 points to push the Gin Kings within a win of the championship. He followed it with another scoring masterpiece in Game 6, pouring in 52 points. Despite his efforts, TNT survived and forced a deciding seventh game.

     

    The burden that had rested on Brownlee’s shoulders throughout the series finally eased in the finale.

     

    Scottie Thompson and RJ Abarrientos rediscovered their form at the perfect time, allowing Brownlee to focus on leading rather than carrying the team. He finished Game 7 with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and five assists as Ginebra pulled away in the second half to secure the title.

     

    “As an import in this league, there are times when you need to take over a game. I think there is a balance where sometimes I try to get other guys involved. But there were moments when I felt like I needed to be what an import is,” he said.

     

    For Brownlee, the championship became more emotional as the reality of the achievement settled in.

     

    “It means everything. Ten years ago, I’d never thought I’d be playing at 38 years old and win championships. But these fans give me the energy to play for them, play for my family,” Brownlee said after being announced as the Player of the Game in their do-or-die Finals match.

     

    The latest title only strengthened the belief of Tim Cone, the winningest coach in league history, that Brownlee’s place among the all-time greats is already secure.

     

    “I don’t think there’s any doubt. In my mind, he is the GOAT,” said Cone.

     

    “It’s hard to argue with the numbers he’s putting up, especially in this era where players are bigger and stronger. Imports can’t dominate like they used to, and the defense has become more sophisticated,” Cone added.

     

    As the celebrations continue, Brownlee’s attention will soon shift from club glory to national duty, with Gilas Pilipinas preparing for the next window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers in July.

     

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  • Scottie Thompson turns grit into gold, claims third Finals MVP after Ginebra’s Championship run 

    Scottie Thompson turns grit into gold, claims third Finals MVP after Ginebra’s Championship run 

    Scottie Thompson did not dominate the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals with eye-popping scoring totals or flashy stat lines every night. Instead, he did it the way he has built his entire career — by showing up, fighting through pain, and making winning plays when they mattered most.

     

    On a night when Barangay Ginebra completed its championship mission, Thompson’s fingerprints were all over the deciding Game 7 victory.

     

    Battling a nagging hamstring injury that limited him throughout the series, the veteran guard produced one of his most complete performances of the conference, finishing with 17 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists to help the Gin Kings defeat TNT, 88-76, before a record crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    The performance not only secured another title for Ginebra but also earned Thompson the Ramon Fernandez Finals MVP award, his third Finals MVP recognition after previous triumphs in the 2018 Commissioner’s Cup and the 2021 Governors’ Cup.

     

    What made this latest honor stand out was the adversity surrounding it.

     

    Unlike previous championship runs where Thompson entered the Finals at full strength, this time he had to manage an injury while matching up against a deep and determined TNT squad in a series that stretched the distance.

     

    Rather than forcing the issue, Thompson focused on impacting the game in every possible way — rebounding, facilitating, defending, and providing leadership for a Ginebra team that leaned heavily on its veterans throughout the seven-game battle.

     

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    By the end of the series, his all-around contributions proved impossible to ignore.

     

    Thompson averaged 10.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 1.3 steals across the Finals, numbers that reflected his versatility and importance to the champions.

     

    The one-time league MVP admitted afterward that the recognition came as a surprise.

     

    “It was an unexpected” one.

     

    His consistency throughout the series helped him edge out teammates Troy Rosario and RJ Abarrientos in the voting conducted by the PBA Press Corps for the award named after four-time MVP and league legend Ramon Fernandez.

     

    For Thompson, however, the trophy may be less about individual accomplishment and more about validation.

     

    In a Finals defined by pressure, injuries, and momentum swings, he once again proved why he remains one of the most trusted players in the league — not because he demands the spotlight, but because he finds a way to deliver when the championship is on the line.

     

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  • Roger Pogoy backs TNT’s chances despite injury concerns ahead of decisive Game 7

    Roger Pogoy backs TNT’s chances despite injury concerns ahead of decisive Game 7

    TNT Tropang 5G heads into a winner-take-all Game 7 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals carrying both momentum and uncertainty, as injuries continue to cast a shadow over the team’s championship aspirations.

     

    After battling back from the brink of defeat, TNT forced a deciding game with a gutsy 98-90 victory over Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in Game 6, evening the best-of-seven series at 3-3 and setting the stage for a highly anticipated finale at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday, June 17.

     

    While the Tropang 5G showed remarkable resilience in extending the series, concerns remain regarding the health of several key players. Star forward Calvin Oftana has been dealing with a calf injury, while Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser continues to recover from the ankle injury he sustained during Game 5. Their availability for the championship decider could prove pivotal in TNT’s quest for another title.

     

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    Despite the uncertainty surrounding his teammates, veteran forward Roger Pogoy expressed confidence that both players will suit up for the biggest game of the conference.

     

    “Right now I declare, maglalaro sila next game. Para sa akin. I will declare. Kasama si Lord yan. Maglalaro yan sa Game 7. At the end of the day, si Lord lang talaga makakaalam kung sino yung mananalo. Basta as long as we will give our best, may the best team win,” Pogoy said in a media interaction.

     

    Pogoy’s optimism reflects the confidence and belief that have fueled TNT throughout the series. Faced with adversity and a depleted roster, the Tropang 5G refused to back down in Game 6, relying on collective effort, defensive intensity, and timely scoring to keep their championship hopes alive.

    The veteran shooter was particularly proud of how his teammates responded to the challenge, highlighting the determination shown by the entire squad despite the absence of key contributors.

     

    “Sobrang proud ako sa mga teammates ko talagang lumaban ng dulo. Kahit kulang kami, kahit wala si Calvin, BGR talagang sabi ko sa kanila, anuhan na lang to. Puso-puso na lang talaga to. Talagang hands up talagang kay Chris McCullough kasi yun nga, pinakita niya talaga na import talaga siya. Kasi yun nga, yun yung kailangan namin. Wala kami Calvin e, wala BGR e. Talagang saludo kay Chris talaga. Binuhat niya kami,” he added.

     

    McCullough delivered one of his finest performances of the conference in Game 6, stepping up when TNT needed him most. With the team missing significant firepower and frontcourt depth, the import carried a heavy offensive burden while also providing leadership on both ends of the floor. His performance helped neutralize Ginebra’s efforts and ensured the series would go the distance.

     

    Now, with one game left to decide the championship, Pogoy believes the Finals will ultimately come down to desire, execution, and which team can rise to the occasion under pressure. In a Game 7 environment, where every possession is magnified and every mistake can be costly, mental toughness and composure often become the deciding factors.

     

    For Pogoy, statistics, momentum, and even previous results may no longer matter. What matters most is which team is willing to leave everything on the floor.

     

    “Talagang sa Game 7 kung sinong gustong manalo, sino din pumapasok yung mga tira. Ganun din eh. Ganun talaga yan sa Game 7. Talagang wala na yan. Talagang kung sinong gustong manalo, yun yung mananalo,” he concluded.

     

    With the Commissioner’s Cup trophy on the line, both TNT Tropang 5G and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel now prepare for one final battle in what has been a fiercely contested championship series. TNT will look to complete its comeback despite injury concerns, while Ginebra aims to regroup and capitalize on the opportunity to capture another league title.

     

    After six hard-fought games, the stage is set for a dramatic conclusion. A championship, legacy, and months of hard work will all come down to 48 minutes in Game 7.

     

     

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