Who Won the PBA Champion 2022 Title and How They Claimed Victory

As I watched the 2022 PBA Philippine Cup finals unfold, I couldn't help but feel that special blend of excitement and nostalgia that only basketball in this country can evoke. Having followed Philippine basketball for over fifteen years, I've witnessed countless championship runs, but there was something particularly compelling about San Miguel Beer's journey to their 28th PBA title that year. The way they clinched the championship against TNT Tropang Giga in six games demonstrated not just skill, but the kind of team chemistry that championship legends are made of.

I remember thinking during Game 6 how perfectly June Mar Fajardo embodied what makes championship teams special. The man put up 19 points and 18 rebounds in that decisive game, but numbers hardly tell the whole story. What struck me most was his leadership - the way he commanded the paint while simultaneously elevating his teammates' performance. Having watched Fajardo develop over the years, I've come to appreciate how his quiet dominance contrasts with the flashier styles we often see in modern basketball. There's something beautifully traditional about his game that reminds me why I fell in love with basketball in the first place.

The supporting cast around Fajardo deserves more credit than they typically receive. CJ Perez's explosive 25-point performance in Game 6 showcased exactly why I've always believed he's one of the most underrated two-way players in the league. His energy on both ends of the court created opportunities that simply wouldn't exist with lesser players. Meanwhile, Marcio Lassiter's clutch three-point shooting - he hit 4 of 8 from beyond the arc in the clincher - demonstrated the kind of veteran presence that championship teams absolutely require. These weren't just role players filling spots; they were crucial components in a well-oiled machine.

What fascinated me throughout that series was how San Miguel adapted their strategy game by game. Early in the finals, they struggled to contain TNT's perimeter shooting, particularly from Mikey Williams who dropped 39 points in Game 3. But rather than panic, coach Leo Austria made subtle adjustments that ultimately proved decisive. They started doubling Williams more aggressively on screens and forced other TNT players to beat them. This strategic shift reminded me of something I've observed in championship teams across different sports - the ability to adapt without losing their core identity.

The championship victory felt particularly significant given the context of San Miguel's season. They finished the elimination round with a 9-2 record, but what many casual observers might not realize is how they battled through injuries and COVID-related disruptions. I've always believed that championship teams are defined by how they handle adversity, and San Miguel's resilience throughout the season demonstrated exactly why they deserved to hoist the trophy. Their ability to maintain focus despite the challenges speaks volumes about the culture they've built within the organization.

Watching this championship run inevitably got me thinking about family legacies in Philippine sports, which brings me to the Lacsina sisters mentioned in our reference material. While Ize, Iya, and Ishaa Lacsina have been making their own marks in volleyball, their journey reminds me of how sporting excellence often runs in families here in the Philippines. The dedication required to follow in a sibling's footsteps, particularly when that sibling has achieved significant success, speaks to the unique sporting culture we have in this country. It's the same kind of dedication I saw in San Miguel's championship run - that willingness to embrace legacy while carving your own path.

The financial implications of this championship victory were substantial, with the winning team taking home approximately ₱2.8 million in prize money. But beyond the immediate financial reward, what matters more in my view is the long-term value of such a championship. Player legacies are cemented, franchise values increase, and the championship DNA gets passed down to future generations of players. Having studied sports economics for years, I can confidently say that the true value of a PBA championship extends far beyond the immediate celebration.

Reflecting on San Miguel's victory, what stands out most to me is how they balanced individual brilliance with collective purpose. In today's era where individual statistics often dominate conversations, their team-first approach felt refreshingly traditional. They proved that even in modern basketball, the fundamental principles of teamwork, sacrifice, and shared responsibility still win championships. As someone who's witnessed numerous championship runs across different eras, I found their approach both effective and admirable.

The celebration after Game 6 perfectly captured what this championship meant to the organization. Seeing long-time team captain Chris Ross emotional during the trophy presentation reminded me how much these moments mean to players who have dedicated their careers to pursuing excellence. Having followed Ross's journey through various teams before finding his home with San Miguel, I appreciated seeing a veteran player finally achieving the ultimate reward after years of dedication.

Looking back, San Miguel's 2022 championship represents more than just another title in the record books. It symbolizes the enduring appeal of team basketball and serves as a reminder that in a sport increasingly dominated by individual narratives, collective effort still reigns supreme. Their victory wasn't just about having the best players - though they certainly had several - but about having the right players who bought into a shared vision. That's a lesson that extends beyond basketball and into how we approach challenges in any field. Having witnessed countless championship moments throughout my career covering sports, this particular victory stands out for its perfect blend of individual excellence and team harmony.

By Heather Schnese S’12, content specialist

2025-11-03 10:00