The San Miguel Beermen are set to compete in the upcoming Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governors’ Cup with an almost intact roster, just days before the tournament kicks off this Sunday. After a strong showing in the Philippine Cup, which saw them reach the finals, the Beermen have made minimal changes to their lineup.
A notable addition is Fil-Canadian guard Avan Nava, the team’s first-round pick at No. 12 in the recent PBA Draft.
Following lengthy contract negotiations, the 6-foot-2 guard will now bolster the Beermen’s backcourt as Nava is expected to make an impact alongside key players like Philippine Cup MVP June Mar Fajardo, CJ Perez, Marcio Lassiter, Don Trollano, and Jericho Cruz.
In preparation for the Governors’ Cup, the Beermen have also made an adjustment to their import, replacing Tauras Jogela with former NBA player Jordan Adams, in hopes of further strengthening their lineup.
Sunday’s opening game will feature the Meralco Bolts facing off against the Magnolia Timplados Hotshots at 7:30 p.m. at the Araneta Coliseum, setting the stage for the Beermen’s return to the court.
During the Philippine Cup, the Beermen won their first 10 games, advancing to the quarterfinals where they defeated Terrafirma. They then overpowered Rain or Shine in the semifinals, only to be upset by Meralco in the finals, who claimed their first-ever Philippine Cup title. The Beermen are now looking to bounce back in the Governors’ Cup and reclaim their dominance.
