SMB vs. Ginebra: Dubai Set for a Blockbuster PBA Showdown

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by Raymund Tamayo

Ginebra's RJ Abarrientos tries to drive past SMB's Chris Ross.
Ginebra's RJ Abarrientos tries to drive past SMB's Chris Ross. Photo: PBA Images.

Get ready, Dubai.

Two of the PBA’s most iconic franchises are bringing the heat to the desert! San Miguel Beer and Barangay Ginebra are set to collide in a high-stakes Philippine Cup battle royal this Sunday, October 26, at the Coca-Cola Arena, marking one of the most anticipated clashes of the young season.

Fresh off a 111–93 bounce-back win over Rain or Shine, the defending All-Filipino champions are heading to Dubai with momentum and confidence on their side. Coach Leo Austria called their victory a “huge morale booster,” especially after dodging what could’ve been a 0–3 hole. 

“We can’t afford to lose again before this trip. That win gives us the confidence we need heading into Dubai,” said Austria.

But across the court stands Barangay Ginebra, hungry to redeem itself after a painful 89–75 loss to Meralco, a game where they squandered a 16-point lead. Still, Coach Tim Cone remains optimistic, saying, “We actually played well for most of the game. We just couldn’t sustain our momentum.”

Ginebra's Japeth Aguilar (25) goes up for an undergoal stab against SMB's June Mar Fajardo (15) and Jericho Cruz (39).
Ginebra's Japeth Aguilar (25) goes up for an undergoal stab against SMB's June Mar Fajardo (15) and Jericho Cruz (39). Photo: PBA Images.

Austria isn’t taking the Kings lightly, either. “They may have lost their last game, but Ginebra looked great in that win over TNT. We know how dangerous they can be when they find their rhythm,” he said.

This isn’t just another regular-season matchup — it’s a grudge rematch of last season’s semifinal Game 7 thriller, where San Miguel edged Ginebra, 100–93, to reclaim the Philippine Cup crown. Expect emotions to run high, fans to roar, and pride to be on full display as both squads look to make a statement on international soil.

The Dubai game also serves as a historic return for the PBA, marking its first overseas outing in six years as part of the league’s 50th anniversary celebration. The last time the league visited the UAE was back in 2019 during the Governors’ Cup, featuring — fittingly enough — the same two powerhouse franchises.

With San Miguel’s star-studded core eyeing consistency and Ginebra seeking redemption, this isn’t just a game — it’s a spectacle. The Coca-Cola Arena is about to witness a showdown worthy of the PBA’s golden milestone.

Tip-off: 7 p.m. — expect fireworks in Dubai.