San Miguel wants to start the new year on the right foot. But the Beermen got a tough task ahead of them in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup.
Defending champion San Miguel Beermen aim to return to the win column as they take on Barangay Ginebra in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup on Sunday, Jan. 5, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
The game tips off at 7:30 p.m.
[RELATED STORY: Ginebra braces for tough battle vs San Miguel in PBA Commissioner's Cup]
The Beermen (3-3) are coming off a 99-91 loss to Eastern last December 22, with head coach Leo Austria acknowledging the adjustment period for new import Jabari Narcis.
"But I think he's still adjusting. He could shoot from the three once in a while. He's an import that could fit with June Mar Fajardo kasi we needed someone to stretch the floor," said Austria.
[ALSO READ: Leo Austria feels new San Miguel import Jabari Narcis has more to show]
Despite Narcis’ transition, the Beermen continue to lean heavily on eight-time MVP June Mar Fajardo, who is posting impressive averages of 19.83 points, 17.33 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in the mid-season joust.
A win against Ginebra would bolster San Miguel’s playoff push and restore their momentum as the playoff chase resumes following the holiday break.
(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)
—
[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.]