Meralco, SMB clash in PBA 50th anniversary game

The Meralco Bolts and San Miguel Beermen will face each other in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup eliminations on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

This matchup is significant as it's their first game since Meralco defeated San Miguel Beer for their maiden championship last year.

The game coincides with the PBA's 50th anniversary, and both teams will wear retro jerseys from their MICAA days in the 1970s.

Meralco coach Luigi Trillo expressed honor in playing San Miguel as part of the league's 50th year, while SMB coach Leo Austria called it a prestigious game.

The Bolts, who are missing injured Allein Maliksi for the conference, are aiming for a third straight victory, having started the season with a 2-0 record.

This includes a comeback win against Converge, highlighted by Chris Newsome's game-winning jumper, and a dominant 118-80 victory over Terrafirma.

The Beermen hold a 1-0 record, having defeated NLEX in their opening game, and are seeking their second consecutive win.