San Miguel Inches Closer to Philippine Cup Glory with Commanding Game 4 Win

by Lou Reyes

Jericho Cruz (39) shoots a 3-pointer. Photo: PBA Images.

San Miguel Beer tightened its grip on the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup title after overpowering TNT Tropang 5G, 105-91, in Game 4 of the Finals on Sunday, July 20, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Riding the hot hands of Jericho Cruz, who led all Beermen scorers with 23 points, San Miguel secured its third straight win in the best-of-seven series, seizing a dominant 3-1 advantage. 

ONE MORE WIN

FINAL: The San Miguel Beermen move just a win away from winning the #PBAFinals after winning Game 4 over TNT, 105-91.

SMB now leads series, 3-1. | @MeloFuertesINQ

•⁠ Follow our live updates here: https://t.co/Z9ZR0fEj0Z pic.twitter.com/6SL3Sl42BO

— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) July 20, 2025

Cruz delivered back-to-back three-pointers during a pivotal stretch in the final quarter, helping snuff out TNT’s late comeback attempt and pushing the Beermen to the brink of another all-Filipino crown.

The win puts San Miguel just one victory away from its 30th PBA championship overall and a return to the throne they vacated last season when Meralco snatched the title. 

A win in Game 5 on Wednesday, July 23, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao would not only secure the championship but also crush TNT’s hopes of completing a rare Grand Slam.

With momentum clearly on their side, the Beermen look poised to close the deal and reclaim their spot atop the Philippine Cup hierarchy.