I still remember the first time I watched Javi Gomez de Liaño play live at the Araneta Coliseum back in 2018. The energy in that arena was electric, and watching him maneuver through defenders with that distinctive fluidity made me realize we were witnessing something special. Having followed Philippine basketball for over fifteen years as both a fan and analyst, I've developed a keen eye for players who don't just perform but actually transform the game. What's particularly fascinating about San Miguel's current roster isn't just the raw talent—it's how these players have evolved into a cohesive force that's reshaping the PBA landscape.
When June Mar Fajardo returned from his injury last season, many wondered if he could reclaim his dominant form. Not only has he done that, but he's actually expanded his game in ways I didn't anticipate. His stats tell part of the story—averaging 18.7 points and 12.3 rebounds per game this conference—but numbers can't capture how his presence alone forces opponents to completely redesign their defensive schemes. I've spoken with several coaches who've admitted they spend at least 40% of their preparation time specifically planning for Fajardo. What impresses me most isn't his physical dominance but his basketball IQ. He's developed this almost psychic connection with his teammates, particularly in pick-and-roll situations where his decision-making has become nearly flawless.
Then there's CJ Perez, whose explosive scoring ability continues to amaze me season after season. I was at the game where he dropped 42 points against Ginebra last month, and what stood out wasn't just the point total but how he scored them—a mix of relentless drives, improved three-point shooting (he's hitting 38% from beyond the arc this season, up from 32% last year), and that trademark defensive intensity that generates easy transition buckets. What many fans might not notice is how his off-ball movement has evolved. He's constantly reading defenses and finding soft spots, something that separates good scorers from great ones.
The Gomez de Liaño brothers have brought an interesting dynamic to the team. When I spoke with Javi's former teammate earlier this season, he mentioned how proud he was of what Gomez de Liaño had accomplished, particularly his development into a more complete player. Having watched his journey from college star to PBA contributor, I've noticed his game has matured significantly. His decision-making has improved, and he's become more selective with his shots, which has increased his efficiency. Meanwhile, Juan has shown flashes of brilliance that suggest he could develop into a significant contributor within the next two seasons.
What often gets overlooked in discussions about San Miguel's success is the role players who consistently make winning plays. Marcio Lassiter's shooting remains elite—he's connecting on 41% of his three-point attempts this season, which is remarkable consistency for a veteran player. Chris Ross continues to be the defensive anchor, and I'd argue he's one of the most underrated perimeter defenders in recent PBA history. His ability to disrupt opposing guards changes entire offensive schemes.
The chemistry between these players is something you can't quantify with statistics but becomes obvious when you watch them play regularly. They move with a shared understanding that only comes from years of playing together through multiple championships. I've observed how their defensive rotations have become almost instinctual—they anticipate each other's movements in ways that newly assembled teams simply can't replicate. This chemistry translates to crucial moments in close games, where they consistently execute better than their opponents.
From my perspective, what makes this San Miguel team particularly special is how they've adapted to the evolving style of Philippine basketball. The game has become faster and more perimeter-oriented in recent years, and while they maintain their traditional inside dominance through Fajardo, they've successfully incorporated more transition offense and three-point shooting. This balance between established strengths and necessary evolution is what separates championship teams from merely good ones.
Looking at the broader impact on Philippine basketball, San Miguel's success has raised the competitive level across the league. Other teams have been forced to improve their rosters and strategies to compete, which ultimately benefits the entire sport. The level of play in the PBA has noticeably improved over the past three seasons, and I believe San Miguel's sustained excellence has been a significant driver of this elevation.
As someone who's analyzed basketball at both professional and collegiate levels, I'm particularly impressed by how San Miguel's veterans have mentored the younger players. There's a clear passing of knowledge and culture that ensures the team's identity persists even as rosters change. This institutional knowledge, combined with top-tier talent, creates the foundation for sustained success that could potentially extend their championship window beyond what many analysts (myself included) initially projected.
The future looks bright for San Miguel, though challenges remain. The physical toll on veteran players, potential injuries, and the natural progression of rival teams mean they can't afford complacency. But based on what I've observed this season—the player development, strategic adjustments, and that intangible championship mentality—I believe we're watching one of the most impactful teams in recent PBA history. Their influence extends beyond wins and losses, setting standards for professionalism, teamwork, and basketball excellence that will likely influence how Philippine basketball develops in the coming years.