Seven of the top-8 teams in the PBA Philippine Cup standings are either on a winning streak or coming off a victory, setting up a frantic finish to the playoffs.
The battle for a twice-to-beat edge in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup is officially on, with seven of the top eight teams either riding a winning streak or coming off a win.
As the standings begin to compress, the fight for top-4 spots—and the all-important quarterfinal bonus—is intensifying.
NLEX Road Warriors are now the hottest team in the league, winning five straight to climb to 5-1, just behind the Magnolia Hotshots (6-1), who finally tasted defeat after a six-game run.
San Miguel (5-2), Ginebra (4-2), and Rain or Shine (4-2) are firmly in the mix, while Converge (5-3) remains in striking distance.
Even TNT (3-3), winners of three straight, could quickly rise with another win. However, the Grand Slam-seeking Tropang 5G will have to do without Rey Nambatac, who is out 4-6 weeks due to injury.
Already without Jayson Castro, TNT is now down two Finals MVPs in its backcourt.
With the race tightening, every game moving forward could make or break a team’s shot at a twice-to-beat edge.
PBA Philippine Cup standings (As of May 19):
- Magnolia Hotshots 6-1
- NLEX Road Warriors 5-1
- San Miguel Beermen 5-2
- Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel 4-2
- Rain or Shine Elasto Painters 4-2
- Converge FiberXers 5-3
- TNT Tropang Giga 3-3
- Meralco Bolts 3-5
- Phoenix Fuel Masters 2-5
- Blackwater Bossing 1-4
- NorthPort Batang Pier 1-5
- Terrafirma Dyip 1-7
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]