PBA teams battle for playoff spots in the 2024-25 Commissioner’s Cup.
(EPICSTORIAN) – As the 2024–25 PBA Commissioner’s Cup nears its final stretch, the battle for playoff positioning has intensified. The teams are vying for coveted quarterfinal spots and the twice-to-beat advantage, with only two playdates left in the elimination round, making every game a high-stakes encounter.
Here’s a breakdown of the latest power rankings as the playoff picture takes shape:
1. NorthPort Batang Pier (9-3) – Peaking at the Right Time
NorthPort surged to the top with two crucial wins, finishing the eliminations at 9-3. Despite a late-game scare against San Miguel, their signature transition offense remained dominant. They averaged 10 steals per game, translating to 18 points off turnovers.
Import Kadeem Jack delivered a stellar week, averaging 34 points and 6.5 rebounds with an outstanding 66.1% true shooting. He also hit the go-ahead basket in a narrow win over San Miguel. Arvin Tolentino recorded a rare triple-double (14 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists), while Joshua Munzon rebounded from a slump with a 21-point outing against Blackwater.
2. TNT Tropang Giga (8-3) – Resilient Bounce-Back
TNT’s six-game winning streak came to a shocking halt against previously winless Terrafirma, conceding 117 points and 14 three-pointers. However, they quickly recovered with back-to-back wins to stay in contention for a top-two finish.
In their two victories, TNT held opponents to just 83.5 points per game on 38.9% shooting. Offensively, they thrived, averaging 109.7 points per game over three contests. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson remained the driving force, posting 30.3 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 6 assists while hitting 52.3% from beyond the arc.
3. Meralco Bolts (7-3) – Rested and Ready for a Strong Finish
Meralco had a week off due to East Asia Super League (EASL) commitments, setting the stage for a decisive final stretch. With matchups against Ginebra and Magnolia ahead, they still have a shot at a twice-to-beat advantage.
For that to happen, they’ll need Chris Newsome and Chris Banchero to replicate their outstanding performances from the previous week, where they combined for 39 points on 70.6% true shooting in a key win over San Miguel.
4. Barangay Ginebra (7-4) – Statement Victory Ends Inconsistency
Ginebra silenced critics with a dominant 120-92 victory over Rain or Shine, securing a playoff berth. Justin Brownlee delivered his best game of the season with 29 points, 13 rebounds, and 6 assists on 71.9% true shooting.
Meanwhile, Scottie Thompson played aggressively, contributing 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 8 assists while shooting 69.8%. With the return of Jamie Malonzo and steady contributions from Troy Rosario and Stephen Holt, Ginebra is once again a serious contender.
5. Converge FiberXers (8-4) – Battling for a Top Seed
Despite a late comeback attempt, Converge fell short against San Miguel, denting their twice-to-beat aspirations. The loss exposed defensive weaknesses, but their offense remained potent.
Import Cheick Diallo led the way with 28 points, while Jordan Heading sparked a 32-17 fourth-quarter rally with 25 points, including two crucial four-pointers. With big man Justin Arana expected to return for the playoffs, Converge remains a dangerous opponent.
6. Eastern (7-4) – Highs and Lows Continue
Eastern followed up a 134-point explosion against Terrafirma with a disastrous 78-point outing in a loss to Magnolia. Their struggles from beyond the arc (19%) proved costly.
Hayden Blankley had an inefficient night, scoring just 9 points with 5 turnovers, while Glen Yang posted 14 points on 33.3% shooting. However, with a win over NLEX and some favorable results, they can still finish in the top two.
7. Magnolia Hotshots (5-6) – Rising at the Right Time
Magnolia delivered a statement win over Eastern, showcasing two-way dominance for the first time this season. Zavier Lucero and Jerom Lastimosa combined for 40 points on 71.5% true shooting, while Ian Sangalang and Mark Barroca chipped in key contributions.
With a final elimination game against Meralco looming, Magnolia must maintain this momentum to secure a playoff spot.
8. NLEX Road Warriors (5-6) – Fighting to Stay Alive
NLEX kept their playoff hopes alive with a hard-fought win over Rain or Shine. Robert Bolick led the charge with 40 points, 6 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Mike Watkins dominated inside with 25 points and 14 rebounds.
Their supporting cast stepped up as Anthony Semerad, Xyrus Torres, Kevin Alas, and Javee Mocon all scored in double digits. A strong fourth quarter sealed the win, but they still need another victory to qualify.
9. San Miguel Beermen (5-7) – Inconsistent but Dangerous
San Miguel’s rollercoaster season continued as they nearly pulled off a comeback against NorthPort but then almost squandered a big lead to Converge.
Import Malik Pope struggled, averaging just 12 points and 8.7 rebounds across three games, leaving the team searching for answers. Their playoff fate now depends on other results.
10. Rain or Shine Elasto Painters (6-5) – Defensive Issues Mount
Back-to-back blowout losses have left Rain or Shine in danger of missing the playoffs. They allowed 121 points per game, highlighting defensive struggles.
Import Deon Thompson was a lone bright spot, averaging 24.5 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 assists, but unless their defense improves, their postseason hopes could be in jeopardy.
11. Terrafirma Dyip (1-11) – Spoiler Role Achieved
Terrafirma ended their 11-game losing streak in style, stunning TNT 117-108. Rookie Mark Nonoy had a breakout game with 33 points, shooting 5/6 from deep.
With promising young talents like Louie Sangalang and Kemark Cariño, Terrafirma has the foundation for future improvement.
12. Blackwater Bossing (3-9) – Playing Spoiler
Blackwater shattered Phoenix’s playoff hopes with an all-Filipino lineup. Justin Chua and Christian David stepped up, averaging 18.5 and 20 points, respectively.
13. Phoenix Fuel Masters (3-9) – Freefall Continues
Phoenix’s struggles culminated in a four-game losing streak, with their offense averaging just 81 points per game. Their inability to settle on a consistent rotation hurt their chances.
