McCullough Expects TNT-Ginebra Finals Showdown to Become a PBA Classic

Although he may be the newest face in a rivalry steeped in history, Chris McCullough believes the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Season 50 Commissioner's Cup Finals between TNT and Ginebra has all the makings of a memorable championship series.

"I think this is going to be one of those PBA Finals that fans will remember for a very long time," said the former San Miguel Beer import during the pre-Finals press conference at Novotel Manila Araneta City in Cubao.

It is a bold prediction from a player making his first appearance in the storied TNT-Ginebra rivalry. However, the 31-year-old import is no stranger to either franchise, both of which are meeting in the Finals for the fourth time in the last eight conferences.

McCullough previously led San Miguel Beer past TNT en route to capturing the 2019 Commissioner's Cup title, giving him firsthand knowledge of the Tropang 5G's competitiveness long before joining the team as Bol Bol's replacement.

His understanding of TNT has only deepened since arriving, having played a crucial role in the team's semifinal triumph over Meralco. In just three games, he helped the Tropang 5G secure their place in another championship series.

On the other side stands Ginebra, a team McCullough has yet to face but has long admired from afar. He has witnessed the Kings' never-say-die culture, most recently showcased in their gritty semifinal victory over Rain or Shine.

Adding another layer to the matchup is his familiarity with Ginebra import Justin Brownlee. The two have known each other since their early playing days while trying to establish themselves in professional basketball.

"We're facing a great team and a great player," McCullough said. "This series has all the ingredients to be remembered."

McCullough's arrival brings a fresh storyline to yet another chapter of the TNT-Ginebra rivalry. His impact could prove decisive in the best-of-seven championship battle, which begins tonight.

The series opens at SMART Araneta Coliseum—the same venue where McCullough captured his first PBA title and where TNT edged Ginebra in the unforgettable Game 7 of the Season 49 Commissioner's Cup Finals.

History favors the Tropang 5G, who have defeated the Kings in each of their last three Finals meetings. Leading those championship runs was three-time Best Import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, whose Achilles injury has opened the door for McCullough to take center stage in this year's rematch.

TNT head coach Chot Reyes acknowledged that this Finals matchup presents a different challenge.

"It's a very different series this time," Reyes said. "We have a different team because of our import. The key for us is our ability to continue adjusting and adapting to Ginebra's style of play."

"Personally, my goal is simply to perform at a high level because that's what it will take for us to compete," he added.

While much attention will be focused on the imports, local stars are expected to play equally significant roles. TNT will lean on the firepower of Roger Pogoy, Calvin Oftana, and Jordan Heading, who rediscovered his shooting touch late in the semifinals. Veterans Kelly Williams and Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser are also expected to anchor the team's frontcourt rotation.

Ginebra, meanwhile, will count on RJ Abarrientos, the frontrunner for Best Player of the Conference honors after an outstanding semifinal performance against Rain or Shine that included consecutive 30-point outings. Scottie Thompson also appears to have fully settled back into his trademark "superstar role player" role alongside Abarrientos, much like he once did with veteran leader LA Tenorio.

For Ginebra head coach Tim Cone, the stakes are straightforward.

"Nobody enjoys finishing second," said Cone, who is aiming for his 26th PBA championship. "Both teams deserve to be here, but only one will come out on top."