The San Miguel Beermen unleashed a third-quarter surge on Friday to force a do-or-die Game 5 in their PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinal series against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel. One of the key drivers of that run was Cjay Perez.
After the game, Perez noted that the Beermen, impressive as they were in Game 4, still have room for improvement, particularly on defense. He also credited veteran teammate Chris Ross for providing stellar leadership in their pivotal triumph.
Matching Ginebra’s Energy and Effort on the Defensive End
After falling behind 0-2, the Beermen responded by taking two straight games to level the series.
Speaking with reporters after the match, the eight-year PBA veteran shared that the team focused on matching Ginebra’s defensive intensity, a key element missing in their earlier losses.
“Last two games talagang binigay lang namin ‘yung best namin. Yung kulang namin nung dalawang games na natalo kami, yung effort sa defense [and] sabayan yung energy ng Ginebra,” he recalled.
The starting guard turned in a solid stat line of 14 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block in Game 4. Despite the victory, the 32-year-old believes San Miguel can refine its execution even further.
“Actually, itong dalawang panalo namin is kulang pa. I think may ibubuga pa kami sa depensa,” Perez added.
Perez has averaged 16.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals over the series, maintaining his role as the primary domestic scoring option alongside import George King.
Crediting Chris Ross’s Leadership
The four-time PBA champion also praised Ross for setting the tone when the team needed it most.
“Actually, kilala na natin si Chris Ross, tagal na natin na nakikita sa PBA everytime na naasar siya or ano, tumataas lalo ‘yung energy and isa siya sa mga leader namin,” Perez said.
During halftime, Ross exchanged words with Ginebra assistant coach Olsen Racela. Ross later downplayed the moment, explaining that both sides were simply voicing their passion for the game.
“Siya ‘yung nilu-look up namin every time na nasa loob kami, and minsan siya din nagde-dictate ng mga plays namin. Magaling siyang leader, so yeah, I’m proud of him na mas gumanda pa ang laro niya ngayon,” Perez emphasized.
The 41-year-old veteran delivered a masterclass in Game 4, capturing Player of the Game honors with 20 points, 6 rebounds, 9 assists, and 5 steals.
The Beermen aim to complete the series comeback when they clash with Ginebra in a decisive Game 5 later today at Ynares Center in Antipolo.
