San Miguel advances to PBA semis by beating Meralco 108-97

San Miguel secured their place in the semifinals of the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup by defeating Meralco 108-97 on Friday, focusing on advancing rather than exacting revenge for last year's championship loss.

The Beermen held a significant halftime lead and maintained their advantage to claim victory despite Meralco's third-quarter comeback attempt, with Rodney Brondial contributing crucial points off the bench, including a double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds.

San Miguel coach Leo Austria emphasized that his team was more concerned about reaching the semifinals than avenging last year’s loss to Meralco, while Don Trollano scored 19 points and acknowledged feeling a sense of redemption after playing a key role in dethroning Meralco.

June Mar Fajardo led San Miguel with a double-double of 23 points and 15 rebounds, while Juami Tiongson added 19 points to the Beermen’s efforts.

Chris Banchero's 32-point performance was not enough for Meralco to avoid elimination after their first appearance since the Basketball Champions League Asia tournament.

San Miguel will face either Barangay Ginebra or Converge in a best-of-seven semifinals series, which starts on Wednesday.