In a breathtaking display of offensive firepower, San Miguel Beermen guard CJ Perez single-handedly dismantled Barangay Ginebra in the opening period, propelling his team to a decisive 101-88 victory in Game 6 of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals. The win, secured on Friday night, January 16, 2026, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, clinched the series 4-2 and booked the Beermen's ticket to the championship round.
A Historic First Quarter Explosion
The story of the game was written in the first twelve minutes by Perez, wearing jersey number 77. The San Miguel star was simply unstoppable, pouring in 30 points in the first quarter alone on a perfect 12-of-12 shooting from the field. His incredible individual effort outscored the entire Barangay Ginebra squad, which managed 25 points, giving the Beermen a 30-25 lead they would never relinquish.
This remarkable scoring outburst tied Perez for the second-highest scoring output by a local player in a single quarter in PBA history. He matched the feat achieved by Bong Alvarez back in 1990. The all-time record remains with the legendary Allan Caidic, who scored 37 points in one quarter in 1991.
Career Night Seals Finals Berth
Perez didn't cool off after his electric start. He continued his dominant play to finish with a new career-high of 41 points, leading all scorers and steering the defending champions back to the finals. The Beermen efficiently closed out their sister team, setting up a highly anticipated finals clash with a familiar foe: the TNT Tropang 5G.
San Miguel coach Leo Austria praised his team's collective effort and determination to seize the moment. "We don't want to wait for another conference to get back to the finals. We have the opportunity and we don't want to waste it," Austria stated. He added, "The guys responded. It's money time and they stepped up."
Rivalry Renewed in the Finals
With the semifinal battle concluded, focus now shifts to the PBA Philippine Cup Finals. The intense rivalry between the San Miguel Beermen and the TNT Tropang 5G is set to resume. Game 1 of the finals is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. Basketball fans across the Philippines can expect another epic chapter in one of the league's most storied competitions.
