In a noteworthy turn of events, San Miguel guard CJ Perez, famously known as “The Predator,” clinched the PBA Finals Most Valuable Player accolade after an impressive journey.
Throughout the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals, Perez consistently displayed prowess, averaging 18.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 3.2 steals per game.
The pinnacle of Perez’s performance unfolded in Game 6, where he achieved a playoff career-high of 28 points, with a remarkable 24 points scored in the second half.
This victorious moment marked the culmination of a taxing season for Perez, who had been actively involved in basketball since the previous year’s FIBA World Cup, including participating in the Asian Games.
Expressing gratitude in Filipino, Perez acknowledged the abundance of blessings and considered his achievements as the fruit of his dedicated efforts. Particularly impactful was his role in the fourth quarter, where, despite a challenging 11-point deficit, he contributed 12 crucial points to secure San Miguel’s victory.
The defining moment came in the final minute when, with a one-point lead (100-99), Perez skillfully executed a series of moves, including a decisive three-pointer against Magnolia’s Rome dela Rosa, sealing the victory at 103-99.
Reflecting on his journey, Perez expressed appreciation for the trust placed in him by the coaches, emphasizing their unwavering support even during challenging times.
San Miguel’s head coach, Jorge Gallent, commended Perez’s multifaceted skills, acknowledging his prowess in both offense and defense. Gallent highlighted Perez’s growth and maturity as a player, emphasizing the significance of his contributions to the team’s success. Perez not only secured the Best Player of the Conference title but also earned the prestigious Finals MVP recognition, further solidifying his status as a seasoned and accomplished player.
