This is expected to be an action-packed series between the top two teams in the conference.
Paul Lee is under no illusion that Magnolia's showdown against San Miguel in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals will be a breeze.
Though the Chicken Timplados Hotshots emerged as the top seed in the import-laced conference, it cannot be denied that the Beermen are parading a formidable lineup with seven-time PBA Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo and prolific import Bennie Boatwright leading the charge.
“It’s not going to be easy. Kasi 'yung San Miguel, all-star [ang] kalaban namin,” said Lee during the press conference for the finals at the Richmonde Hotel in Eastwood.
He was right.
Even without injured Vic Manuel and Terrence Romeo, who coach Jorge Gallent list as day-to-day, the Beermen boast of talent and depth.
They are also riding the crest of a nine-game winning streak as they enter the Last Dance.
“Sabi nga ni coach Jorge, hindi na sila Death Five, Death 15 na sila ngayon,” added Lee.
“Totoo naman 'yun. Kahit sinong bunutin mo doon magku-contribute talaga. Mahirap.”
[RELATED STORY: What Death Five? San Miguel coach Jorge Gallent says it's Death 15]
But the Hotshots are coming in with added motivation after succumbing to the same team in the Philippine Cup Finals in 2019.
As one of the remnants of that roster, Lee is eager to avenge the loss and break the title drought.
“It’s been a while since last [kaming] naglaro sa finals. Hopefully, makuha namin this time,” he said.
The best-of-seven series begins on Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena. Action starts at 7:30 p.m.
It will air live on RPTV, A2Z, PBA Rush and the Pilipinas Live app.