Magnolia Hotshots and San Miguel Beer will meet in a crucial matchup at the Ynares Center-Montalban, with both teams aiming to strengthen their position in the PBA Philippine Cup standings. Magnolia currently holds a 4-1 record, sharing second spot with TNT Tropang 5G, while San Miguel is at 3-2, seeking a fourth consecutive win to move into the Magic Four.

Coach LA Tenorio said the Hotshots aim to change their reputation as a team that starts strong but struggles to finish. “This Magnolia team is always on top, but alam natin ang naging experience. Hopefully, ibang storya naman moving forward,” he said. San Miguel, riding a three-game winning streak, is coming off victories over Rain or Shine, Barangay Ginebra, and Converge. Juami Tiongson starred in the 96-90 win against Converge, highlighting the Beermen’s rising form.

Both teams are looking for a Top Four finish to secure a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals. Magnolia seeks to tighten execution and consistency down the stretch, while San Miguel aims to maintain momentum and continue its winning run against elite competition.

TNT seeks fourth straight win against Terrafirma

TNT Tropang 5G will face Terrafirma Dyip earlier in the schedule, hoping to maintain its winning streak and move to 5-1. Terrafirma, meanwhile, is trying to snap a three-game slide and improve to 2-4 to keep its playoff hopes alive.

Coach Ronald Tubid stressed the importance of competing in every possession. “Kapag naglaro, kailangan mag-compete every time, every possession. Good thing, kahit natatalo kami, enjoy pa rin sila, willing to learn,” he said. With key players Kemark Carino, Maverick Ahanmisi, and Mark Nonoy sidelined by injuries, Terrafirma relies on Jerrick Ahanmisi, Paolo Hernandez, Mark Louie Sangalang, and rookie JM Bravo to carry the load.

TNT, coming off an overtime 100-98 win over Meralco, faces no major injury concerns. Coach Chot Reyes emphasized rest and recovery ahead of this matchup, knowing that victories are essential to maintaining their position atop the standings before facing Magnolia, Rain or Shine, San Miguel, and NLEX in upcoming games.