LA Tenorio Leads Barangay Ginebra to Dramatic Comeback Victory

MANILA, Philippines — In a thrilling showdown at the Araneta Coliseum on July 6, 2025, veteran LA Tenorio delivered a remarkable fourth-quarter performance, clinching a last-minute three-point shot that propelled Barangay Ginebra to an exhilarating 88-87 victory over San Miguel Beer. This win not only showcased Tenorio's skill but also forced a decisive Game 7 in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup semifinals.

Tenorio, 40, demonstrated his enduring prowess, scoring all 11 of his points in the final quarter and finishing the game with an impressive 3-for-3 shooting from beyond the arc, alongside a 4-of-5 overall shooting performance. His clutch three-pointer with just 3.1 seconds remaining turned the tides for Ginebra, erasing a daunting 16-point deficit and allowing them to secure the comeback victory after trailing 85-87.

The match was a testament to Ginebra’s resilience, led by Scottie Thompson, who contributed significantly with 17 points, 16 rebounds, and eight assists. Japeth Aguilar also played a crucial role, adding 16 points, while Stephen Holt and RJ Abarrientos chipped in with 12 points each. For San Miguel, June Mar Fajardo stood out with 21 points and 16 rebounds, reflecting the competitive nature of this high-stakes game.

The pivotal victory not only highlights Tenorio's experience but also sets the stage for an intense winner-take-all showdown on Wednesday at the Big Dome. Ginebra's head coach, Tim Cone, referred to Tenorio as his 'magic bunot' (lucky draw), underscoring the importance of the veteran's performance during critical moments of the game.

The significance of this match extends beyond individual performances; it encapsulates the dramatic narratives often seen in the PBA, where underdog stories and comeback victories resonate deeply with fans. As both teams prepare for the decisive Game 7, analysts anticipate a fierce battle, emphasizing the psychological pressures faced by players in high-stakes scenarios.

According to Dr. Michael Reyes, a sports psychologist at the University of the Philippines, “The pressure in knockout games can lead to both thrilling performances and unexpected outcomes. Players like Tenorio, who have been in these situations multiple times, often rise to the occasion.”

As the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals reach a crescendo, the implications for both teams are profound. A victory in Game 7 would not only secure a place in the finals but also solidify the legacies of the players involved. The intense rivalry and the stakes involved are expected to draw significant viewership, adding to the rich history of the league.

As anticipation builds for the final game, Ginebra fans are hopeful that Tenorio's performance is a harbinger of success, while San Miguel Beer will be looking to reclaim their dominance in the series. The outcome of this semifinal clash will resonate throughout the league, shaping the narrative for the upcoming finals and the future trajectories of both franchises.