I still remember watching that final Game 4 between San Miguel Beer and Meralco with bated breath, the tension so thick you could cut it with a knife. That tournament might've been short, but the title was still just as sweet as she hoped for it to be — one that sent a statement to the rest of the league. As someone who's analyzed basketball games professionally for over a decade, I can confidently say this championship series will be remembered for years, not just for the outcome but for what it revealed about both teams' character and future prospects.
The final score of 98-91 doesn't fully capture how intensely contested this game was. San Miguel managed to pull away in the crucial fourth quarter, outscoring Meralco 28-19 in those decisive final minutes. What impressed me most was how June Mar Fajardo dominated the paint with 24 points and 15 rebounds, reminding everyone why he's considered the best big man in the league. His performance in the third quarter, where he scored 8 consecutive points, completely shifted the momentum in San Miguel's favor. From my perspective, this was vintage Fajardo - when the game mattered most, he elevated his play to another level entirely.
Meralco fought valiantly throughout, with Chris Newsome putting up 22 points and 7 assists in what I consider one of his best performances this season. Their three-point shooting was particularly effective early on, hitting 45% from beyond the arc in the first half. However, their bench production was concerning - only contributing 18 points compared to San Miguel's 35. I've always believed that championship teams need reliable depth, and this game perfectly illustrated that principle. When Meralco's starters needed breathers, there simply wasn't enough offensive firepower coming off the bench to maintain their early momentum.
The turning point came with about 6:32 remaining in the fourth quarter when San Miguel went on that 12-2 run that essentially decided the game. What many casual viewers might not have noticed was how San Miguel's defensive adjustments during halftime completely disrupted Meralco's offensive rhythm. They started switching more aggressively on screens and doubled Newsome every time he tried to penetrate. Having studied countless championship games, I can tell you that these subtle tactical adjustments often make the difference between winning and losing at this level.
San Miguel's championship experience truly shone through in those pressure-filled final minutes. While Meralco appeared to rush their shots and make uncharacteristic turnovers, San Miguel maintained their composure, executing their sets with precision and patience. This is what separates great teams from championship teams - the mental fortitude to perform under extreme pressure. I've always admired how San Miguel develops this championship DNA, and it was on full display during this crucial Game 4.
Looking at the statistical breakdown, San Miguel shot 48% from the field compared to Meralco's 43%, but the real story was in the rebounding battle. San Miguel grabbed 52 total rebounds, including 15 offensive boards that led to 18 second-chance points. These hustle stats often get overlooked, but as any coach will tell you, they're frequently the difference in close games. Meralco's 38 total rebounds simply weren't enough against a physical team like San Miguel.
From a strategic standpoint, I was particularly impressed with how San Miguel managed to limit Allein Maliksi's impact after his explosive 28-point performance in Game 3. They held him to just 14 points on 5-of-15 shooting, primarily by forcing him into contested mid-range jumpers rather than allowing open three-point looks. This kind of specific game planning demonstrates the level of preparation that championship teams bring to every game.
The victory gives San Miguel their 28th championship in franchise history, extending their record as the most successful team in league history. For Meralco, it's another heartbreaking finish, but they've proven they belong among the league's elite teams. Personally, I believe this series will serve as a valuable learning experience for their younger players, particularly Brandon Bates, who showed tremendous potential despite his limited minutes.
What fascinates me most about championship moments like these is how they transcend the game itself. That tournament might've been short, but the title was still just as sweet as she hoped for it to be — one that sent a statement to the rest of the league. San Miguel has reminded everyone that despite challenges and a shortened season, their championship pedigree remains intact. They've set the standard, and now every other team must respond.
As the confetti settled and the celebration began, I couldn't help but reflect on how this victory reinforces certain fundamental basketball truths. Teams built on defensive discipline, rebounding dominance, and veteran leadership tend to prevail when it matters most. While the three-point revolution has transformed modern basketball, this series demonstrated that traditional basketball values still win championships. San Miguel's victory wasn't flashy, but it was effective, methodical, and ultimately deserving. The league has been put on notice - the Beermen remain the team to beat, and dethroning them will require more than just talent; it will require the kind of mental toughness and strategic excellence they displayed throughout this hard-fought series.