SMB vs Ginebra Game 5 Highlights: Key Plays and Final Score Analysis
As I settled into my couch for Game 5 of the SMB vs Ginebra series, I could feel the tension even through the screen. I've been covering Philippine basketball for over a decade, and I can tell you this particular rivalry never disappoints. The atmosphere was electric from tip-off, with both teams understanding what was at stake in this pivotal game. What struck me immediately was how SMB played with this incredible sense of continuity, something that reminded me of coach Koji's lasting influence on their system. I remember thinking to myself how remarkable it is when a coach's philosophy becomes so embedded in a team's DNA that it persists long after they've moved on.
The first quarter unfolded with both teams trading baskets, but SMB seemed to have this underlying structure to their game that kept them composed even when Ginebra went on their runs. June Mar Fajardo was absolutely dominant in the paint early on, scoring 8 points in the first six minutes alone. Watching him work reminded me of something I've always believed about Philippine basketball - our big men are among the most skilled in Asia when it comes to footwork and positioning. Meanwhile, Ginebra relied heavily on their backcourt, with Scottie Thompson doing his usual all-around work, though I've got to say his shooting was off tonight, going just 2 for 7 from the field in the first half.
What really stood out to me was how SMB maintained their defensive principles throughout the second quarter. They forced Ginebra into taking contested mid-range jumpers, which statistically are the least efficient shots in basketball today. The numbers don't lie - Ginebra shot just 38% from two-point range in the first half, and that ultimately cost them as SMB built a 12-point lead going into halftime. I've always been critical of teams that settle for these types of shots, and tonight it felt like Ginebra was falling into that exact trap.
The third quarter brought the comeback we've come to expect from Ginebra in these situations. They came out with renewed energy, particularly on the defensive end, forcing three consecutive turnovers that led to easy transition baskets. Christian Standhardinger was phenomenal during this stretch, scoring 11 points in the quarter and really putting his stamp on the game. But here's where SMB showed their championship pedigree - they didn't panic when their lead evaporated. They stuck to their system, continued to move the ball, and slowly regained control. This resilience made me think about how coach Koji's foundation has given them this stability that's so valuable in high-pressure situations.
As the game entered the final period, you could feel the momentum shifting back and forth. The lead changed hands five times in the first four minutes of the quarter, with both teams making incredible plays. CJ Perez hit a tough three-pointer with a defender in his face that had me jumping off my couch, then Thompson answered with an and-one play that brought the Ginebra crowd to their feet. This back-and-forth action is exactly what makes this rivalry so special to watch - neither team ever seems willing to back down.
The final three minutes were a masterclass in execution from SMB. They ran their sets with precision, got the matchups they wanted, and most importantly, they made their free throws when it mattered. Marcio Lassiter, who had been relatively quiet throughout the game, came up huge with a corner three that essentially sealed the victory with 1:12 remaining. Ginebra had their chances, but a critical turnover by Japeth Aguilar with 45 seconds left pretty much ended their hopes. Final score: SMB 98, Ginebra 92.
Looking back at this game, what impressed me most was how SMB maintained their identity throughout the contest. They never strayed from what they do best, even when Ginebra made their runs. This consistency speaks volumes about the foundation that's been built within their program. The final statistics tell an interesting story - SMB shot 47% from the field compared to Ginebra's 42%, and they outrebounded their opponents 52 to 46. But beyond the numbers, what stood out to me was the poise they showed in crucial moments. Games like this remind me why I love covering basketball - it's not just about athleticism or talent, but about systems, preparation, and mental toughness. SMB advances with this victory, but something tells me we haven't seen the last of this rivalry just yet.