The San Miguel Beermen opened their campaign in dominant fashion, defeating the Macau Giant Pandas (0-1), 123-109, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City. The Beermen displayed their trademark championship depth and balanced offense, proving they can compete at a high level even without six-time PBA Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo in the lineup.
While several San Miguel players reached double figures in scoring, it was Rodney Brondial who delivered the night’s most memorable performance. The hardworking forward filled the void left by Fajardo with an incredible all-around effort, finishing with 10 points, 25 rebounds, and 7 assists, while also contributing four steals and one block. His relentless energy on both ends of the floor helped the Beermen control the pace of the game and secure an impressive opening victory.
For Macau, the loss means an early 0-1 record, while San Miguel gains valuable momentum as it begins another championship pursuit.
Rodney Brondial Seizes His Opportunity
With June Mar Fajardo sidelined, many wondered who would take charge of San Miguel’s interior presence. Rodney Brondial answered that question with one of the finest performances of his professional career.
Although Brondial scored just 10 points, his impact extended far beyond the scoring column. He dominated the boards with 25 rebounds, constantly giving San Miguel second-chance opportunities while preventing Macau from generating extra possessions. His 7 assists also showcased his improved playmaking, as he consistently found open teammates whenever the defense collapsed inside.
Defensively, Brondial was equally impressive, collecting four steals and one block while making life difficult for Macau’s frontcourt throughout the game.
His performance demonstrated that winning basketball is about much more than scoring. Hustle plays, defensive stops, rebounding, and smart passing can often make the biggest difference in determining the outcome of a game.
“I’m Always Ready” – Brondial’s Postgame Message
Despite posting career-worthy numbers, Rodney Brondial remained humble after the victory.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Brondial joked about taking on a bigger responsibility in the absence of June Mar Fajardo.
“Biro ko nga kanina, kailangan ko lumabas sa mundo ng halimaw kasi wala si June Mar e.”
The lighthearted remark drew laughs, but it also reflected the challenge of filling in for one of the greatest centers in PBA history. Rather than trying to replace Fajardo’s scoring, Brondial focused on doing everything else the team needed to win.
He also emphasized that preparation has always been his mindset whenever his number is called.
“Ready lang ako palagi sa kung anong opportunity na binibigay sa akin, kinukuha ko lang naman. Nagkataon kasi na may opportunity na tumakbo.”
COURTESY: GMA NETWORK
Brondial’s comments reflected the professionalism that has made him a valuable member of the Beermen over the years. Instead of focusing on individual statistics, he embraced the opportunity to contribute in every possible way. His performance proved that role players who stay prepared can become game-changers when their team needs them most.
San Miguel’s Balanced Attack Overwhelms Macau
While Brondial controlled the paint, San Miguel’s offense flourished through contributions from multiple players.
George King led the Beermen with 30 points, providing consistent offense from both inside and beyond the arc. CJ Perez followed with 21 points, using his speed and athleticism to pressure Macau’s defense.
Veteran guard Jericho Cruz contributed 20 points, while Jerrick Ahanmisi added 16. Celedonio Trollano chipped in 11 points, and Moala Tautuaa rounded out the balanced scoring effort with 10 points.
The Beermen’s ability to spread the scoring across the roster made them extremely difficult to defend. Every time Macau attempted to contain one offensive threat, another player stepped up.
San Miguel also shared the basketball effectively throughout the contest, creating open shots through crisp ball movement and disciplined execution.
Macau Giant Pandas Fall to 0-1
The Macau Giant Pandas showed determination and remained competitive during much of the first half. Their offense produced several scoring runs that briefly kept the game within reach.
However, San Miguel’s experience and dominance on the boards eventually proved too much to overcome.
The Beermen consistently won the rebounding battle, largely because of Brondial’s incredible effort underneath the basket. His ability to secure defensive rebounds prevented Macau from earning second-chance opportunities, while his offensive boards extended San Miguel possessions and wore down the Giant Pandas’ defense.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, San Miguel gradually increased its lead with timely three-pointers, transition baskets, and strong defensive stops before cruising to a comfortable 123-109 victory.
The defeat leaves the Macau Giant Pandas searching for their first win after opening the tournament at 0-1.
A Memorable Night at Ynares Center, Antipolo
Fans inside the Ynares Center in Antipolo City witnessed an entertaining contest highlighted by fast-paced offense, physical defense, and one of the best rebounding performances seen in recent memory.
San Miguel rewarded its supporters with an impressive team performance, but Rodney Brondial’s relentless hustle quickly became the biggest talking point of the evening.
His 25 rebounds represented not only an outstanding individual achievement but also symbolized the effort and determination that have long defined the Beermen’s championship culture.
A Strong Start for the Beermen
The San Miguel Beermen could not have asked for a better beginning to their campaign. Their 123-109 victory over the Macau Giant Pandas (0-1) at the Ynares Center, Antipolo showcased their depth, chemistry, and ability to adapt despite the absence of one of their biggest stars.
Rodney Brondial’s remarkable stat line of 10 points, 25 rebounds, and 7 assists, complemented by four steals and a block, served as the foundation of the victory. More importantly, his postgame comments revealed the mindset behind the performance: staying prepared, embracing every opportunity, and putting the team’s success above individual recognition.
If Brondial continues to provide this level of energy and production while San Miguel’s scorers maintain their balanced attack, the Beermen will once again establish themselves as one of the leading contenders for the championship. Their opening-night performance at the Ynares Center in Antipolo was a strong reminder that championship teams are built not only on star players but also on dependable veterans who are always ready when their moment arrives.
