PBA All Filipino Cup 2018 Highlights: Top Plays and Championship Moments Revealed

As I sit down to reflect on the 2018 PBA All Filipino Cup, one memory stands out vividly—the sheer offensive explosion from San Miguel in Game 4 that left fans and analysts like myself in awe. I’ve been following the PBA for over a decade, and what we witnessed in that championship series was nothing short of spectacular. San Miguel’s ability to rally multiple players into high-scoring roles wasn’t just a fluke; it was a masterclass in team basketball, and it’s precisely why they clinched the title in such dramatic fashion. Let me walk you through the highlights, drawing from my own observations and the stats that made this tournament unforgettable.

First off, let’s talk about Jericho Cruz, who, in my opinion, was the unsung hero of that game. Dropping 23 points in a high-stakes match like Game 4 isn’t something you see every day, especially when you have giants like June Mar Fajardo on the court. I remember watching Cruz weave through TNT’s defense with such finesse—it felt like he was everywhere at once, hitting clutch shots that kept the momentum firmly in San Miguel’s favor. But what really impressed me was how he complemented Fajardo and Cjay Perez, who together formed a trio that TNT just couldn’t contain. Perez, in particular, brought a dynamic energy that I’ve always admired; his agility and sharp shooting added layers to San Miguel’s offense that made them unpredictable and, frankly, terrifying for any opponent. As someone who’s analyzed countless games, I can tell you that when role players step up this big, it’s a game-changer—and Cruz’s performance was a textbook example.

Now, let’s not overlook the supporting cast, because that’s where San Miguel truly shone. Don Trollano, Marcio Lassiter, and Juami Tiongson combined for 33 points in that game, and if you ask me, their contributions were just as crucial as the stars’. I’ve always believed that championships are won by depth, not just by a couple of standout players, and this game proved it. Lassiter’s three-pointers, for instance, were pure magic—he hit what felt like 4 out of 5 attempts in the second quarter alone, though my notes might be a bit fuzzy on the exact number. Tiongson’s defensive plays, paired with Trollano’s relentless drives, created a synergy that TNT struggled to counter. Watching them, I couldn’t help but think that if San Miguel keeps this up, with multiple players scoring in double digits, they’re not just a strong team—they’re a dynasty in the making. And honestly, as a fan, it’s thrilling to see such balanced teamwork in a league that often highlights individual stars.

The championship moments from that series, especially in Game 4, were packed with intensity. I recall one play where Fajardo dominated the paint, grabbing what seemed like 12 rebounds and converting them into easy buckets—his presence alone forced TNT to double-team him, which opened up opportunities for others. That’s the beauty of San Miguel’s strategy; they used their star power to create space, and players like Cruz and Perez capitalized on it. From my perspective, this isn’t just about raw talent; it’s about coaching brilliance and player chemistry. I’ve seen teams with better individual stats fall short because they lacked this cohesion, but San Miguel executed it flawlessly. If this trend of an avalanche of points from multiple sources continues, as I suspect it will, TNT and other rivals are in serious trouble. In fact, looking back, I’d argue that this game set a new standard for how depth can dictate outcomes in the PBA.

Wrapping it up, the 2018 PBA All Filipino Cup was more than just a tournament; it was a showcase of strategic depth and individual brilliance. As I reflect on those top plays, I’m reminded why I love this sport—the unpredictability, the teamwork, and the sheer passion on display. San Miguel’s victory wasn’t just about one player; it was a collective effort that highlighted the importance of role players stepping up. If they can maintain this level, I have no doubt they’ll dominate future seasons. For now, though, those championship moments remain etched in my memory, a testament to what makes the PBA so special.