TNT, SMB Set for Another PBA Finals Showdown

The rivalry between TNT Tropang 5G and the San Miguel Beermen is set for another chapter as the two teams prepare to meet once again in the PBA Philippine Cup Finals.

The matchup comes less than a year after San Miguel denied TNT’s grand slam aspirations, defeating the Tropang 5G in six games to capture the 2025 Philippine Cup championship.

As both teams gathered for the PBA Finals Press Conference, TNT head coach Chot Reyes made it clear that the upcoming series is not about revenge.

Not About Redemption

Despite falling to San Miguel in each of their previous Finals encounters, Reyes believes this year’s matchup presents a different challenge.

With TNT entering the series healthier than in previous meetings, Reyes said the focus is on measuring themselves against one of the league’s most successful teams rather than settling old scores.

The Tropang 5G have twice reached the Finals against the Beermen during the Leo Austria era, with injuries playing a major role in both defeats.

This time, TNT believes it enters the championship round in a much stronger position.

SMB Ready to Defend the Crown

On the other side, Austria expressed confidence in San Miguel’s readiness to defend its title.

For the veteran coach, one of the team’s biggest strengths remains its depth.

“It’s a very important factor, yung bench,” Austria said.

“Since the start of the conference, that’s been my goal. As mentioned during the semifinals, different individuals stepped up as the best players in our four wins.”

San Miguel’s ability to rely on contributions throughout its roster has long been one of the hallmarks of its championship success.

Honoring a PBA Legend

The Finals press conference also featured the introduction of the Ramon Fernandez Finals MVP Trophy.

Named after Ramon Fernandez, one of the greatest players in PBA history and a former Philippine Sports Commission chairman, the award will now recognize the top performer of the championship series.

Nine-time PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo welcomed the tribute.

“Dapat lang, siya ‘yung barometer sa mga players. Siya ‘yung nilu-look up namin. Deserve niya ‘yun, walang doubt,” Fajardo said.

Another Chapter Awaits

With TNT seeking to finally overcome its longtime rival and San Miguel aiming to add another championship to its collection, the stage is set for another highly anticipated Finals series.

The only thing left to determine is which team will emerge victorious when the battle for the Philippine Cup crown begins.