PBA: SMB seals QF bonus with rout vs also-ran Terrafirma

June Mar Fajardo posted another triple-double for San Miguel. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--San Miguel is now assured of a Top 4 finish in the PBA Philippine Cup eliminations after drubbing Terrafirma, 135-115, on Wednesday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Surprisingly down, 18-26, after the first quarter, the Beermen erupted for 117 points in the last three quarters to steal the win from an upset-seeking Dyip side that was looking to end their conference with a shocker.

CJ Perez led SMB, which will enter the quarterfinals with a twice-to-beat advantage, with 26 points on 10-of-20 shooting, six rebounds, one assist, and one steal.

Jericho Cruz added 17 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two steals, while June Mar Fajardo notched his second career triple-double with 10 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists alongside two steals.

The team can seal the top seed in the quarterfinals with a win on Friday night against Meralco.

Maverick Ahanmisi led Terrafirma, which will once again finish dead last in the season-opening tournament at 1-10, with 20 points, five rebounds, three assists, three steals, and two blocks.