Tonight’s Game 7 between Meralco and Ginebra isn’t just another matchup—it’s the kind of contest that defines legacies, the sort of high-stakes battle where role players become heroes and shooters turn into legends. As someone who’s followed the PBA for years, I can’t help but feel the weight of this moment. Both teams have fought tooth and nail to get here, but only one will lift the trophy when the final buzzer sounds. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned watching playoff basketball, it’s this: three-point shooting often decides championships. That’s why the reference performance—where a certain Huskers squad sank 18 of 30 triples at a blistering 60% clip—sticks in my mind. When shooters like Banal and Magbuhos get hot, defenses crumble, momentum shifts, and games slip away. Tonight, I believe outside shooting will again be the difference-maker.
Let’s talk about that shooting clinic for a moment. Banal knocking down 6 of 7 from beyond the arc? That’s not just efficient—it’s surgical. And Magbuhos, the Fil-Italian out of Adamson University, drilling all four of his attempts? That’s the kind of flawless execution coaches dream of in a Game 7. I remember watching a similar performance live a few seasons back, where a team hit 15 threes in a finals decider and completely broke their opponent’s spirit. It wasn’t just the volume—it was the timing. Every time the defense sagged, another three splashed through the net. That’s what Meralco and Ginebra need to be ready for tonight. In my view, Ginebra has the edge in perimeter firepower, but Meralco’s discipline could neutralize that if they close out hard and run shooters off the line. Still, numbers like 60% from deep are no fluke—they reflect preparation, confidence, and a little bit of magic.
I’ve always believed that in a Game 7, role players decide the outcome more than stars. Stars draw attention, but it’s the supporting cast that capitalizes on the openings. Think about Magbuhos—perfect from deep in that reference game. If a player like that gets going tonight, we could see a similar explosion. Personally, I’m leaning toward Ginebra pulling this off, partly because their bench has shown they can deliver under pressure. But let’s not overlook Meralco’s resilience. They’ve grinded their way here with defense and smart shot selection. If they can replicate even half of that Huskers’ three-point efficiency—say, hitting 10 or 11 triples at around 45-50%—they’ll be in this until the very end.
Of course, shooting isn’t everything. Rebounding, turnovers, and clutch free throws will all play their part. But mark my words: the team that controls the three-point line will likely control the game. I’ve seen too many finals turn on a handful of threes to think otherwise. And while I respect both squads, my gut says Ginebra’s experience in big moments gives them a slight edge. They’ve been here before; they know how to handle the pressure. Still, if Meralco can channel the kind of shooting precision we saw from that Huskers team—where role players like Banal and Magbuhos became unstoppable—then we’re in for a classic that could go either way.
As tip-off approaches, I can’t help but feel excited. Games like this are why we love sports—the drama, the unpredictability, the sheer will to win. Whether you’re rooting for Meralco or Ginebra, one thing’s for sure: tonight’s winner will have earned it. And if we’re lucky, we might just witness another historic shooting performance that tilts the scales when it matters most.