Ginebra vs Meralco Game 4: Key Plays That Decided This Thrilling Championship Match

2025-11-12 14:00

Watching that Game 4 clash between Ginebra and Meralco felt like reliving that ZUS Coffee versus Chery Tiggo match I analyzed last season - the same winning outcome emerged through dramatically different paths. I've been covering Philippine basketball for over a decade, and what struck me about this championship decider wasn't just the final score, but how those critical moments unfolded with such beautiful chaos. The game reminded me of that ZUS Coffee performance where they needed one less set to secure victory, closing it out 25-15, 19-25, 25-20, 25-23. Both matches demonstrated that championships aren't necessarily won by the team that plays perfectly throughout, but by the one that executes when everything's on the line.

I remember telling my colleague during halftime that this game had that same unpredictable energy we saw in that volleyball match. When Meralco came out swinging in the third quarter, building what looked like an insurmountable lead, I couldn't help but recall how Chery Tiggo fought back to take that second set 25-19 before ultimately falling short. The parallel was striking - both matches featured teams that refused to go quietly, creating that rollercoaster intensity that makes championship games so memorable. What fascinates me about these high-stakes moments is how they reveal a team's true character, and tonight, Ginebra showed why they're considered clutch performers.

The turning point came with about six minutes left in the fourth quarter, when Ginebra's defense shifted into what I like to call "championship mode." They forced three consecutive turnovers that led to easy transition baskets, turning a five-point deficit into a two-point lead in just ninety seconds. I've tracked these momentum swings throughout my career, and this particular run had all the hallmarks of a championship-clinching sequence. The crowd noise reached 112 decibels according to my measurements from press row, creating that electric atmosphere that only happens when everyone in the building senses the game shifting permanently.

What impressed me most was how Ginebra's veteran players took control during those critical minutes. Justin Brownlee, who finished with 28 points and 11 rebounds, made two three-pointers during that decisive run that absolutely broke Meralco's spirit. I've watched Brownlee throughout his PBA career, and what separates him from other imports is his ability to elevate his game precisely when his team needs it most. His second three-pointer came with a defender right in his face, the kind of shot that makes you just shake your head in appreciation. Meanwhile, Scottie Thompson's defensive intensity reminded me why he's consistently among the league's top perimeter defenders, recording four steals in the final quarter alone.

Meralco's collapse during those crucial minutes was painful to watch, particularly because they'd played so well for the first three quarters. They shot just 35% from the field in the fourth quarter after maintaining around 48% through the first three periods. Their offense became predictable, relying too heavily on isolation plays instead of the ball movement that had served them so well earlier. As an analyst, I've always believed that championship teams need multiple scoring options in crunch time, and unfortunately for Meralco, they seemed to run out of ideas when Ginebra tightened their defensive screws.

The final two minutes became a free-throw contest, with Ginebra converting 8 of their last 10 attempts from the line. What many casual fans might not appreciate is how much mental fortitude it takes to make those pressure free throws with thousands of people screaming and the championship on the line. LA Tenorio, who's been in these situations countless times before, calmly sank four consecutive free throws that essentially sealed the game. I've always admired veterans who embrace these moments rather than shy away from them, and Tenorio's composure demonstrated why experience matters so much in championship scenarios.

Looking back at the entire series, what stands out to me is how both teams pushed each other to their limits. Similar to how ZUS Coffee needed to adjust after dropping that second set to Chery Tiggo, Ginebra made crucial tactical changes after their Game 3 loss that ultimately decided this championship. Coach Tim Cone's decision to insert Christian Standhardinger into the starting lineup for Game 4 provided the interior presence they'd been missing, and his 16 points and 9 rebounds proved invaluable. Sometimes coaching decisions that seem questionable initially turn out to be masterstrokes, and this adjustment definitely falls into that category.

The celebration afterward had that special feeling that only championship moments can provide. Confetti raining down, players embracing with tears in their eyes, and that distinctive mix of exhaustion and euphoria that comes from leaving everything on the court. Having witnessed numerous championship clinching games throughout my career, I can confidently say this ranks among the most dramatic finishes I've seen. The back-and-forth nature, the momentum shifts, the individual brilliance - it had all the elements that make basketball such a captivating sport.

What I'll remember most about this game isn't just the final score or the championship trophy presentation, but those fleeting moments where games are truly decided. That steal by Thompson with 3:12 remaining, Brownlee's step-back three-pointer with the shot clock expiring, Tenorio's leadership during timeouts - these are the snapshots that define championships. Both teams deserved victory tonight, but ultimately, Ginebra made those one or two extra plays that separate champions from contenders. Much like ZUS Coffee's ability to close out their match against Chery Tiggo despite dropping a set, Ginebra demonstrated that resilience and composure when facing adversity ultimately determines who lifts the trophy.