SMB stars June Mar Fajardo and Chris Ross. PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – It's all about their undeniable "killer instinct" and leadership.
San Miguel head coach Leo Austria praised the composure and on-court orchestration of eight-time PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo and veteran guard Chris Ross following their 108-88 Game 3 win in the PBA Philippine Cup Finals on Friday at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Powered by their late hits as well as defenses, Fajardo and Ross made their triumph happen, moving up to a 2-1 advantage over the Tropang 5G in the Finals.
READ: San Miguel denies TNT in Game 3, goes up 2-1 in PBA Finals
Fajardo stuffed the stat sheet with a massive 33-point and 11-rebound performance, while Ross followed through with 15 points on four triples and six rebounds.
Austria, while not surprised by the duo's showing, took time to laud his loyal wards in the aftermath of Game 3.
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"I think the experience of the players, ano. Dahil alam nila fourth quarter is pivotal, and the killer instinct of the players, especially June Mar Fajardo and Chris Ross—they know how to handle the finals," Austria said.
More than their valuable contributions that marked the stats, it was their inspiring leadership that helped the Beermen move as one and deny any TNT comeback.
"This is a very important game... first game in the best-of-five-series, and everybody was inspired by these guys are doing in the court," Austria added.
Austria commended both the playmaker and the big man's extensive experiences.
"Not only in scoring, but also in defending, especially Chris Ross. His leadership is amazing," the champion tactician went on.
"June Mar is a very experienced player when it comes to playoffs. He wants to win, and that's the most important thing. Everyone wants to win."
SMB tries to build a 3-1 lead over Grand Slam-seeking TNT on Sunday, July 20, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
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