CJ Perez Ignites Fourth Quarter Comeback to Secure San Miguel's PBA Finals Advantage
In a dramatic turn of events, CJ Perez transformed from a struggling scorer into a clutch performer, leading San Miguel Beer to a crucial 95-89 victory over TNT Tropang 5G in Game 3 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals. The thrilling contest unfolded on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the MOA Arena in Pasay City, with Perez's late-game heroics shifting the momentum in the best-of-seven series.
Perez's Explosive Final Minute Seals the Win
Despite a slow start that saw him manage only three points in the first three quarters, Perez erupted for 17 points in the fourth period, including a decisive seven-point burst in the final minute. His back-to-back shots from beyond the arc—a four-pointer followed by a three-pointer—capped a nine-to-nothing closing run for San Miguel, breaking an 89-86 deficit and propelling the Beermen to a pivotal 2-1 series lead.
"I just want to win," said Perez, reflecting on his gutsy plays that highlighted his resilience and determination. His performance not only secured the win but also showcased his ability to rise to the occasion under pressure.
Coach Austria Praises Perez's Focus After Early Altercation
The game was not without its tensions, as Perez and San Miguel coach Leo Austria had an altercation earlier in the contest. However, Austria commended Perez for his subsequent focus and apology, which translated into a game-changing effort. "Early on, we had an altercation, but it turned out well. He apologized, he focused and he showed that he wanted to prove something," Austria stated in a mix of Tagalog and English.
Austria further emphasized his trust in Perez's shooting instincts, adding, "We weren't after the four-point shot actually but knowing CJ, he just wants to win and I never forbid him from shooting from any part of court as long as it's a good shot and it needs to be taken." This confidence in Perez's abilities proved pivotal in the game's outcome.
Game Dynamics: A Seesaw Battle of Surges
The match was characterized by intense back-and-forth action, with both teams exchanging leads throughout. San Miguel, led by June Mar Fajardo and Moala Tautuaa, started strong with a 33-19 first-quarter advantage. However, TNT found their rhythm in the second period, surging ahead to take a 50-44 halftime lead.
TNT maintained control through much of the third quarter, thanks to contributions from Calvin Oftana and his teammates, before San Miguel mounted a counterattack. The game evolved into a seesaw battle, with TNT briefly holding an 89-86 lead after a 10-0 run fueled by Rey Nambatac, Oftana, and Henry Galinato. Perez's late explosion, however, ensured San Miguel had the final laugh, building on their Game 2 victory.
Key Contributors and Final Scores
Beyond Perez's 20-point effort, Don Trollano added 19 points for San Miguel, while June Mar Fajardo dominated the boards with 16 points and a monstrous 27 rebounds. Moala Tautuaa contributed 14 points, and Marcio Lassiter chipped in 10, providing solid support to help SMB take command of the series.
For TNT, Calvin Oftana led the scoring with 25 points, supported by Jaydee Heading and Matt Rosser with 15 points each. Despite their efforts, the team fell short in the closing moments, setting the stage for a crucial Game 4 at the same venue on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Final Scores:
- San Miguel 95: Perez 20, Trollano 19, Fajardo 16, Tautuaa 14, Lassiter 10, Cruz 8, Brondial 4, Teng 4, Ross 0, Tiongson 0
- TNT 89: Oftana 25, Heading 15, Rosser 15, Nambatac 12, Galinato 6, Khobuntin 5, Erram 4, Pogoy 4, Enciso 3, Williams 0, Jalalon 0
Quarters: 33-19, 44-50, 67-72, 95-89.
