The San Miguel Beermen look to ride on their ongoing PBA win streak under returning head coach Leo Austria as they face Hong Kong Eastern in the EASL.
The San Miguel Beermen aim to secure their first victory in the 2024-25 East Asia Super League (EASL) season when they face Hong Kong Eastern on Wednesday, December 18, at Southorn Stadium in Hong Kong.
Both Eastern and the Beermen enter Wednesday’s game winless in the EASL so far.
San Miguel had another tough start to its international campaign after narrowly losing its opener to Suwon KT Sonicboom, before then falling to the undefeated Taoyuan Pauian Pilots by 16 points.
Despite the setbacks, the Beermen boast strong individual performances from June Mar Fajardo and import EJ Anosike. For this first road game of their EASL schedule, SMB will also depend on CJay Perez to deliver big-time for the decorated PBA franchise.
San Miguel likewise recently had a coaching change as they decided to put Leo Austria back on the helm, while Jorge Gallent moved to a consultant role.
[ALSO READ: JMF welcomes Leo Austria's return to San Miguel top post: 'Masaya kaming nakabalik si Pops']
However, the Beermen will miss the defensive presence of Jericho Cruz, who is serving a suspension after an altercation in their previous game.
San Miguel will rely on its remaining core, including Fajardo, Marcio Lassiter, and Quincy Miller to hopefully take the victory.
Facing a similarly shorthanded Eastern squad missing import Cameron Clark, San Miguel has an opportunity to capitalize and notch the team's first win in the EASL. Tip off will be at 8:00 p.m.
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]