CJ Perez's Dramatic Finish Secures Beermen's Comeback Win in PBA Finals
In a thrilling display of late-game heroics, CJ Perez propelled the San Miguel Beermen to a hard-fought 95-89 victory over the defending champion TNT Tropang 5G in Game 3 of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Season 50 Philippine Cup finals. The electrifying match took place on Sunday night, January 25, 2026, at the Mall of Asia Arena, drawing a captivated audience.
Series Lead Shifts as Beermen Regain Momentum
With this crucial win, the Beermen reclaimed the advantage in the best-of-seven series, now leading 2-1. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with momentum swinging dramatically in the final moments. TNT Tropang 5G appeared poised for victory after building an 89-86 lead late in the fourth quarter, thanks to a three-pointer from Rey Nambatac and a strong play by Henry Galinato.
Perez's Clutch Performance Seals the Deal
However, CJ Perez had other plans. With just 41 seconds remaining on the clock, he sank a breathtaking four-pointer that put the Beermen ahead 90-89, shifting the tide in their favor. Not content with that, Perez followed up with a decisive three-pointer, extending the lead to 93-89 with only 12 seconds left. This sequence effectively dashed the hopes of the Tropang 5G, sealing their fate in a heartbreaking finish.
Reflecting on his game-winning shots, Perez shared, "I just want to win. Wala sa play yun eh, pero thank God na pumasok lang talaga yung tira ko." His humble yet determined attitude underscored the Beermen's relentless pursuit of victory.
Key Contributors from Both Teams
Perez led the charge for the Beermen with an impressive 20 points, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. He was well-supported by Don Trollano, who added 19 points, and June Mar Fajardo, who contributed 16 points to the team's total. On the opposing side, Calvin Oftana spearheaded the Tropang 5G's efforts with a game-high 25 points, while Jordan Heading chipped in 15 points and Rey Nambatac provided 12 points.
This intense showdown highlights the competitive spirit of the PBA Philippine Cup finals, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the series. Fans are eagerly anticipating the next games as both teams vie for the championship title.
