Chris Ross, Beermen look for commanding lead over TNT in Game 4 of PBA Finals

San Miguel is eyeing a commanding 3-1 lead in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup Finals when it takes on TNT Tropang 5G in Game 4 on Sunday, July 20.

Gametime is set at 7:30 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

[RELATED STORY: San Miguel ace June Mar Fajardo goes berserk vs Poy Erram-less TNT in Game 3 of PBA Finals]

Riding the momentum of a 108-88 romp in Game 3, the Beermen have seized control of the best-of-seven series and are now two wins away from clinching a record-extending 30th championship in franchise history.

June Mar Fajardo, the eight-time MVP, was simply unstoppable against TNT’s depleted frontline, pouring in 33 points on 12-of-15 shooting while hauling down 11 rebounds.

He added three assists, a steal, and a block — a complete performance that exposed the absence of Tropang 5G’s defensive anchor Poy Erram, who was sidelined with a sprained right ankle.

Still, Fajardo tempered the dominant showing with respect for TNT’s remaining bigs.

“Mahirap kahit wala si Poy,” said Fajardo, pointing out the toughness of veteran Kelly Williams and athletic forward Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser.

[ALSO READ: Austria lauds vets Ross, Fajardo: ‘Everybody was inspired by what these guys are doing’]

Veteran guard Chris Ross also made his presence felt, finishing with 15 points, six rebounds, and a steal, as the Beermen pulled away in the fourth period.

San Miguel now looks to take full control of the series and spoil TNT’s quest for a historic Grand Slam.

A Game 4 win would put Leo Austria’s squad on the doorstep of another All-Filipino crown — and rejuvenate the dynasty that’s been the PBA’s gold standard for more than a decade.

[ALSO READ: Will Poy Erram return in Game 4 of PBA Finals? TNT coach Chot Reyes gives update]

(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)

——

[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.]