A SURPRISE return by reigning Best Player of the Conference June Mar Fajardo certainly made the championship more intense.
The 2015-16 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup Finals resume with Alaska now under tremendous pressure to finally cop the elusive championship, while San Miguel Beer is totally rejuvenated and looking to make history.
Still ahead, though by only one game now at 3-2 in the best-of-seven finale, the Aces, after blowing their first two chances, will once again shoot for the title. The Beermen for the third straight time, will fight for survival as the two meet again in the crucial Game 6 today at 7 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
After establishing a commanding 3-0 lead at the start of the series, Alaska failed to capitalize. It lost much of its advantage after failing to finish the job in Games 4 and 5.
Alaska coach Alex Compton is hoping that the tide will turn in favor of the Aces as they obviously don’t want to go to a knockout Game 7. Closing out the series and copping the crown is the only thing in mind of the Aces.
“They’ve been very effective the last two games and we need to counter that. Hopefully, we make some shots that we didn’t make in our last two games,’’ said Compton. “We certainly want to end the series. That’s it.’’
The last two games of the Finals were classic ones. Both went into overtime with San Miguel showing its poise in the clutch to keep its title defense alive.
In Game 5 Wednesday night, Fajardo, who was doubtful for the series due to a knee injury, surprisingly returned and played in crucial stretches. He produced 13 points, on 4-of-5 shooting, as he helped San Miguel Beer fight off elimination once more by posting an 86-73 triumph in extension.
Now, the Beermen, who are trying to become the first team to come back from a 0-3 deficit in a series in league history, are in much better shape. They aim on continuing to defy the odds in hopes of becoming the first team to accomplish the difficult feat of winning four straight after falling into a 0-3 hole.
San Miguel coach Leo Austria admitted the defending champions are very optimistic now that they’re giving the Aces a run for their money.
“Now it’s 3-2. We need another one here to get to Game 7,’’ said Austria. “Players and fans were inspired by the return of June Mar (Fajardo) and that’s helping us. The players are showing the heart of a champion now.’’