The battle between Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and the San Miguel Beermen in the 2025 PBA Philippine Cup semifinals is living up to its billing as one of the most intense rivalries in Philippine basketball. As the series enters July, both teams are locked in a tight contest, with pivotal games set to determine who advances to the finals.
Game 1: Ginebra Pulls Off a Comeback Thriller
Barangay Ginebra stunned San Miguel with a stunning comeback to win Game 1 at the Mall of Asia Arena on June 25, 2025, with a score of 73-71. In the second half, Ginebra showed tenacity and self-control despite falling behind by as much as 18 points in the first.
Stephen Holt was the hero of the night, knocking down a clutch three-pointer followed by the game-winning free throws. Japeth Aguilar led the scoring with 18 points, while Scottie Thompson added 16 and Jamie Malonzo chipped in 14 points.
This win gave Ginebra an early 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven series.
Game 2: San Miguel Responds with Dominance
San Miguel Beermen bounced back in Game 2 on June 27, 2025, played at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. Displaying their championship experience, the Beermen controlled the game from start to finish, earning a dominant 100–83 win to even the series at 1–1.
Among San Miguel’s scorers, 16 came from Marcio Lassiter, 14 from Don Trollano, and 13 from Kris Rosales. As the game progressed, the Beermen’s defense became much more stringent, cutting off Ginebra’s offensive options and opening up more transition chances.
Their increased execution on both ends of the court was highlighted by Coach Jorge Gallent, who lauded his team’s response.
Game 3: Pivotal Match Set for June 29
The third game in the series was scheduled for June 29, 2025, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. While the result is still pending, Game 3 is seen as a pivotal turning point in the series. A 2–1 lead could provide momentum heading into the July games.
With both teams showcasing different strengths in the first two matchups—Ginebra with their grit and San Miguel with their firepower—fans are expecting another dramatic contest.
Upcoming Games in July 2025
The semifinals continue with critical games in early July. Here’s the remaining schedule:
- Game 4: July 2, 2025, 5:00 PM – Mall of Asia Arena
- Game 5 (if needed): July 4, 2025, 7:30 PM – Smart Araneta Coliseum
- Game 6 (if needed): July 6, 2025, 5:00 PM – Smart Araneta Coliseum
- Game 7 (if needed): July 9, 2025, 7:30 PM – Smart Araneta Coliseum
These games will determine who advances to the 2025 PBA Philippine Cup Finals, with both Ginebra and San Miguel aiming to reclaim the championship title.
Key Players to Watch
For Ginebra, Japeth Aguilar, Scottie Thompson, and Jamie Malonzo remain key contributors. Their ability to create plays and provide defensive stops will be vital as the series progresses.
Stephen Holt’s clutch performance in Game 1 also proved that Ginebra has depth and late-game poise.
On the other side, San Miguel boasts a deep rotation. Marcio Lassiter and Don Trollano have provided consistent scoring, while CJ Perez, June Mar Fajardo, and Chris Ross continue to anchor their offensive and defensive strategies.
With seasoned players like Moala Tautuaa and Terrence Romeo on the roster, San Miguel is still a dangerous opponent.
What’s at Stake
Both Ginebra and San Miguel are storied franchises with passionate fanbases and championship pedigrees. The 2025 Philippine Cup represents not just a chance at a title, but a continuation of one of the most iconic rivalries in Philippine basketball history.
A win in this series means more than just a finals berth—it means bragging rights and momentum heading into the next PBA conference.
Final Thoughts
There has never been more excitement as the series approaches July. With a one-game lead for each team, Games 3 and 4 should be very dramatic and maybe decisive. An intensely contested matchup is in store for fans, whether the victor is San Miguel’s championship DNA or Ginebra’s legendary tenacity.
Basketball fans across the country should keep their eyes on this series as it unfolds. Whether watching live at the venue or tuning in from home, the Ginebra vs. San Miguel semifinal is delivering playoff basketball at its finest.
Stay tuned for updates on JILI777 results, player highlights, and the road to the 2025 PBA Finals.