McCullough saves day as Beermen take 3-2 lead over KaTropa

Chris McCullough saved San Miguel in the end game with the Beermen taking a 3-2 series lead in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals after a 99-94 win over TNT last Wednesday at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

McCullough hit the game-winning basket for the Beermen to put themselves a victory away from taking their second crown this season. He scored a lay-up with 26.5 seconds left in Game 5 to put San Miguel up, 95-94.

The shot was enough to give San Miguel the victory as tough defense allowed them to keep the lead. Terrence Jones was unable to connect on a lay-up on the next play. McCullough was fouled and sank two free throws for a 97-94 lead.

McCullough also did it on defense after deflecting a three-pointer by Troy Rosario in the final moments of the game. Chris Ross hit two free throws to put the game away.

“Nagpapasalamat pa rin ako sa Panginoong Diyos na biniyayaan ako ng isang panalo na napakahirap ngayong gawin especially noong down kami ng 16 points. I’m happy with the players because they accepted their role especially si Christian Standhardinger. He is my hero tonight,” San Miguel coach Leo Austria said during the postgame interview.

Game 6 is on Friday at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

Scores:
SAN MIGUEL 99 – McCullough 35, Romeo 22, Fajardo 16, Pessumal 9, Ross 7, Cabagnot 4, Standhardinger 4, Santos 2.

TNT 94 – Jones 35, Castro 18, Rosario 16, Pogoy 12, Trollano 7, D. Semerad 0, Heruela 0, Reyes 0, Maat 0, Taha 0.

Quarterscores: 22-28, 45-49, 69-80, 99-94.

PHOTO: PBA Images