Brgy. Ginebra is ready for its next challenge, this time taking on top-seed NorthPort in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup semifinals.
After surviving a grueling three-game quarterfinals series against Meralco, Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel are back in familiar territory, set to face the top-seeded NorthPort Batang Pier in Game 1 of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup semifinals Wednesday at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
The Gin Kings may be the lower seed at no. 4, but experience is on their side. The core of coach Tim Cone, Justin Brownlee, Scottie Thompson, and Japeth Aguilar has been tested in countless deep playoff runs.
However, that same core is coming from Gilas Pilipinas duty in international competition across Qatar, Taiwan, and New Zealand and fatigue could be a factor against the well-rested Batang Pier.
NorthPort may be enjoying its first-ever no. 1 seed, but Ginebra does hold a key playoff victory over them, winning their last semifinal clash in the 2019 Governors’ Cup, 3-1.
That history, coupled with Ginebra’s battle-hardened squad, makes them a dangerous opponent.
With Brownlee leading the way, the Gin Kings are aiming to send an early statement in Game 1. Against a young but talented Batang Pier squad, their championship pedigree will be put to the test once again.
Tip off is set for 7:30 p.m. from the Big Dome.
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[Editor's note: This article was generated by a member of the One Sports Digital team using AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]