Terrafirma’s Breakthrough
Terrafirma stands a win away from a breakthrough semifinals appearance in franchise history as it drags CJ Perez and No. 1 San Miguel to a sudden death in the PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals.
Changing Fortunes for Terrafirma
Gone are the days when opposing teams used to handily beat Terrafirma. The Dyip stand a win away from a breakthrough semifinals appearance in franchise history after dragging No. 1 San Miguel to a sudden death in their quarterfinals clash.
Beermen star CJ Perez acknowledged the transformation, stating, “Terrafirma is very different now. It isn’t like before that when you face Terrafirma, people think it’s an automatic win. That is no longer the case.”
Resilience Amid Challenges
Unable to build a competitive team as they repeatedly traded away their top draft picks and star players, the Dyip have faced significant challenges. However, they have turned things around this conference with standout performances from key players.
- Super scorer Juami Tiongson
- Rookie Stephen Holt
- Reliable gunner Javi Gomez de Liaño
- Sweet-shooting big man Isaac Go
Returning to the playoffs after an eight-year wait, Terrafirma stunned twice-to-beat San Miguel, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Looking Ahead
One more victory and the Dyip will become just the fifth No. 8 seed team in PBA history to eliminate the No. 1 squad in the playoffs. The do-or-die match is set for Wednesday, May 15, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
“You cannot underestimate them. They got good players. Almost everyone in their lineup has been playing well. They’re superstars too,” said Perez.