San Miguel PBA Players: Top Performers and Key Contributions This Season

I still remember the first time I watched a San Miguel Beermen practice session last season—the energy in that gym was absolutely electric. You could feel the championship pedigree in every drill, every shot, every defensive stance. As someone who’s followed the PBA for over a decade, I’ve always been fascinated by how certain players elevate not just their game but their entire team’s performance. This season, watching the San Miguel PBA players dominate has been nothing short of spectacular, and it’s made me reflect on what separates good teams from legendary ones. There’s something special happening with this roster, and I want to dive deep into how these athletes are shaping the league right now.

Take June Mar Fajardo, for example. The man is a walking double-double machine, and honestly, I don’t think he gets enough credit for his consistency. In the last 15 games, he’s averaged 18.7 points and 12.3 rebounds per game—numbers that would make any coach’s job easier. But what really stands out to me is his basketball IQ. I’ve seen him make passes that you’d expect from a point guard, not a center. Then there’s CJ Perez, who’s been on an absolute tear this year. His speed and agility are just unreal; he’s putting up around 22 points per game while shooting 46% from the field. I remember one game where he dropped 31 points against Ginebra, and the way he sliced through their defense was pure artistry. It’s players like these who make the San Miguel PBA squad so formidable, and I’d argue they’re the backbone of the team’s current 11-4 win-loss record. But it’s not just about the stats—it’s about the moments. Like when Marcio Lassiter hit that clutch three-pointer in the final seconds against TNT, sealing a comeback win. As a fan, those are the plays that give you goosebumps.

But let’s be real—it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Early in the season, I noticed the team struggling with bench depth, especially when key players like Fajardo were resting. In one game against Magnolia, they blew a 12-point lead in the fourth quarter, and it was painful to watch. The second unit just couldn’t maintain the intensity, and it highlighted a gap in their rotation. Defense was another issue; they were giving up an average of 98 points per game in the first few outings, which is way too high for a championship-caliber team. I remember thinking, "If they don’t fix this, they’re going to burn out by the playoffs." It reminded me of conversations I’ve had with fellow analysts about how even top teams can get complacent. But what’s impressive is how the coaching staff and players addressed these problems head-on. They started integrating younger talents like Allyn Bulanadi more effectively, and the results have been promising. Bulanadi, for instance, has stepped up in recent games, contributing 8.5 points off the bench and showing flashes of brilliance on both ends of the court. It’s a testament to the team’s adaptability, and honestly, I think it’s what sets them apart from other franchises.

One thing that really struck me this season was hearing about Gomez de Liaño’s pride in his former teammate’s accomplishments. It’s a small detail, but it speaks volumes about the culture within the San Miguel organization. I had a chance to chat with a few insiders, and they mentioned how players like Fajardo and Perez actively mentor the younger guys, fostering a sense of unity that translates onto the court. This isn’t just about individual talent; it’s about building a legacy. When Gomez de Liaño expressed how proud he was, it reminded me that basketball is as much about relationships as it is about wins and losses. That kind of support system is crucial for long-term success, and I’ve seen it pay off in close games where trust between teammates made the difference. For instance, in their recent overtime victory against Rain or Shine, it was the chemistry between the veterans and the rookies that sealed the deal. Perez dished out a career-high 9 assists, and you could see how his experience helped guide the younger players through pressure situations. It’s moments like these that make me believe San Miguel is built for sustained dominance, not just a flash in the pan.

Looking ahead, I’m genuinely excited to see how far this team can go. With the playoffs looming, they’ve got a real shot at another championship, and I’d put my money on them making a deep run. But beyond this season, the lessons here are invaluable for any sports organization. Focus on player development, nurture a positive team culture, and don’t be afraid to lean on your stars while building for the future. As for me, I’ll be watching every game, probably with a cold beer in hand, cheering on these San Miguel PBA players who’ve made this season so memorable. They’re not just athletes; they’re artists crafting a masterpiece on the hardwood, and I feel lucky to witness it.

By Heather Schnese S’12, content specialist

2025-11-15 16:01