MULTI-titled San Miguel Beer opens its campaign in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup when it meets NLEX at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo on Wednesday.

The Beerrmen, who have not won a title in the import-flavored conference in the last three years, will parade import Ivan Aska and new addition Jeron Teng in the 6 p.m. encounter against the Road Warriors and import Thomas Earl Robinson.

San Miguel coach Jorge Gallent said the Beermen are ready to battle for their first crown in an import-laced tournament since ruling the 2019 Commissioner’s Cup with import Chris McCullough.

“We haven’t won since the time of McCullough,” said Gallent, adding the long title drought couldserve as inspiration for the Beermen to come out strong and fight hard each game.

Although forward Vic Manuel is still out of the line-up, San Miguel remains formidable with seven-time PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo, Marcio Lassiter, Chris Ross, CJ Perez, Terrence Romeo, Jericho Cruz, Mo Tautuaa, Noy Baclao, Rodney Brondial and Allyn Bulanadi leading the team.

And then there’s Teng..

“I’m sure he’s gonna help us a lot, If he’s playing well then I’m sure he’s gonna stay on the court,” added Gallent, claiming the former La Salle Archer has to earn his minutes.

The Beermen will be up against the NLEX side coming off a sorry 113-101 loss to Phoenix Super LPG last Friday.

The Road Warriors took control in the first three quarters only to lose steam in the final canto.

Coach Frankie Lim sat out fatigued import Robinson at endgame.

In the 4 p.m. curtainraiser, Blackwater Bossing and Terrafirma Dyip clash.

Both Blackwater and Terrafirma are smarting from losses in their previous outing — the Bossing losing 84-91 to Meralco last Saturday and the Dyip bowing 103-108 to NorthPort last Friday.

“We set a goal sa team na we’ll never lose two in a row. Especially when you lose once, you have to bring focus and readiness for the next game,” said Blackwater coach Jeffrey Cariaso
Said Terrafirma coach John Cardel: “Bawi kami bukas. Hindi kami kailangang matalo.”

Games Wednesday:

(Ynares Center, Antipolo)
4 p.m.– Terrafirma vs. Blackwater
6 p.m. — San Miguel Beer vs. NLEX