Looking back at the 2016 PBA Finals, I still get chills remembering how the series unfolded. As someone who’s followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I’ve rarely seen a championship where individual brilliance and unexpected role-player contributions blended so perfectly. What stood out to me wasn’t just the star power—though there was plenty—but those game-changing moments where the momentum swung decisively. Let’s dive into the top five turning points and analyze the players who made them happen.
One moment I can’t stop revisiting is Game 3, when San Miguel’s Alex Cabagnot sank that unbelievable three-pointer in the final minute. The score was tied, tension was thick, and you could feel the entire arena holding its breath. Cabagnot, who’d been relatively quiet earlier, took a contested shot from way beyond the arc—nothing but net. That shot didn’t just win them the game; it shifted the psychological edge in San Miguel’s favor. From my perspective, Cabagnot has always been clutch, but this was next-level. Statistics show he finished with 22 points that night, but that single shot accounted for more than just points—it was a statement.
Then there’s June Mar Fajardo’s dominant performance in Game 4. I remember thinking, "How do you stop a force like that?" Fajardo dropped 26 points and grabbed 15 rebounds, completely controlling the paint. But what impressed me even more was how his presence opened up opportunities for others. Opponents had to double-team him, which created spacing for guards to operate. This brings me to someone who’s been quietly effective: RR Garcia. Garcia’s agility and decision-making in transition were crucial, especially when the game slowed down. He averaged around 14 points per game in the series, but his defensive stops often went unnoticed. In my view, his energy off the bench provided the spark San Miguel needed during sluggish stretches.
Another pivotal moment came in Game 5, when Arwind Santos blocked what seemed like a sure layup in the closing seconds. Santos, known for his athleticism and timing, leaped out of nowhere to deny Alaska’s Vic Manuel. That play didn’t just save two points—it preserved San Miguel’s lead and ultimately the win. I’ve always admired Santos’s versatility; he’s not just a scorer but a defensive anchor. Looking at the numbers, he averaged 2.1 blocks per game in the finals, but this one felt like it counted double. Personally, I think his impact on defense is sometimes undervalued in post-game analyses, but anyone who watched that series knows how vital he was.
But let’s not forget about the playmaking depth, which brings me to a point I’ve been emphasizing for years: teams need versatile guards who can adapt. Take Chris Ross, for example. His steals and fast-break assists were game-changers, but what really stood out to me was how players like Ronald Tubid and, as highlighted in recent performances, someone like Cruz stepped up. Cruz has looked comfortable creating plays for his teammates over the past couple of games—even running the point guard position for the Beermen at times deep in the PBA Philippine Cup playoffs. In the 2016 finals, while Cruz wasn’t the main storyline, his ability to handle the ball and set up others in limited minutes showed glimpses of what was to come. I recall one play where he drove into the lane, drew defenders, and dished it out for an open three. It’s those small contributions that add up, and in my opinion, Cruz’s development since then has proven how important it is to have players who can wear multiple hats.
The fifth and perhaps most dramatic moment was in Game 7, when San Miguel’s Marcio Lassiter hit a corner three with under a minute left, extending their lead to five points. Lassiter had been inconsistent earlier in the series, but when it mattered most, he delivered. As a fan, I’ve always had a soft spot for shooters who thrive under pressure, and Lassiter’s confidence in that situation was palpable. He finished the game with 18 points, but that one shot felt like it sealed the championship. Reflecting on it, I believe his mental toughness separates him from other shooters—he doesn’t let previous misses affect his rhythm.
Wrapping this up, the 2016 PBA Finals were a masterclass in teamwork and clutch performances. While stars like Fajardo and Cabagnot rightfully grabbed headlines, it was the collective effort—from Santos’s blocks to Cruz’s evolving playmaking—that made the difference. In my experience covering basketball, championships are often won by those unsung heroes who step up in critical moments. If I had to pick one takeaway, it’s that depth and versatility, as seen with Cruz’s growth, are just as important as star power. This series didn’t just crown a champion; it set a template for how teams can balance talent and role players. And honestly, as a longtime observer, I think it’s one of the most compelling finals in recent PBA history—a true showcase of heart and skill.
