By CNN Philippines Staff
The San Miguel Beermen are the All-Filipino champions for the third year in a row.
The Beermen repulsed the Gin Kings in Game 5, 91-85, on Sunday to record their third straight Philippine Cup crown.
Arwind Santos led the way with 21 points and eight rebounds for San Miguel. The Beermen had to fight off a gutsy Ginebra side, which trimmed the San Miguel lead to as little two points entering the final frame.
San Miguel’s lead ballooned back to nine after Santos converted on a layup off a Ginebra turnover with under six minutes left.
It was a seesaw battle from there but Leo Austria’s squad emerged victorious leaning on the clutch plays of playmaker Alex Cabagnot and reigning MVP JuneMar Fajardo.
Chris Ross was named as PBA Finals MVP.
“This team is all about sacrifice,” Ross said after the game. “That’s how you win three championships in a row.”
San Miguel became the first team to take home the perpetual trophy since TNT KaTropa did it back in 2011 to 2013.