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| Courtesy of PBA Media |
1. Ginebra gets within one, then leaves the door open
RJ Abarrientos’ three off a Scottie Thompson pass brought Barangay Ginebra within 98-99 with 1:04 remaining. The escape route was there after a 15-point deficit, but Stephen Holt, Thompson and Abarrientos missed late attempts from deep as San Miguel extended the series.
Bea Micaller’s GMA report identifies the other decisive detail: June Mar Fajardo made all seven field goal attempts for 18 points and 13 rebounds. San Miguel survived despite George King shooting 9 of 22. Ginebra still leads 2-1, but the missed sweep exposes two assignments for Game 4: prevent Fajardo from finishing so efficiently and execute the closing possessions without needing another rescue rally.
2. Kai Sotto’s willingness cannot replace Gilas’ contingency plan
In his November 3 update, Pow Salud argues that wanting to play and being physically ready are separate questions for Kai Sotto. His practical recommendation is to prepare the defense, rebounding and replacement rotation now, then adjust if the Altiri Chiba center becomes available.
The concern extends beyond Kai. Homer Sayson reported Tim Cone’s Monday message that Carl Tamayo would miss the November window after re-spraining his ankle. Pow also questions how quickly Bennie Boatwright can develop chemistry and wants clarity around Justin Brownlee’s continuing role. Those are preparation concerns, not evidence that Brownlee has been formally replaced. This is Pow’s assessment of existing uncertainties, not a fresh medical diagnosis or clearance announcement.
3. Lakers turn extra defenders on Luka into a passing breakthrough
Luka Doncic’s 42 points against Miami came with 13 assists and a wider payoff: the Lakers produced 39 assists, their most under JJ Redick. AP’s Greg Beacham reports that opponents have sent multiple defenders at Doncic well beyond the arc, leaving teammates to benefit when he passes out.
That develops the responsibility described in our October 27 look at Reaves staying ready beside Doncic. Reaves scored 27 against Miami and said Luka’s play opened the floor for everybody. The standout detail is how the scoring threat created usable shots across the lineup, rather than another individual total alone.
4. Curry’s screens give Bassey a view of the Warriors’ advantage
Charles Bassey offered a concrete explanation for his career high 19 points against Phoenix: screening for Stephen Curry repeatedly left him open. In postgame remarks documented by Basketball Network’s Jonas Panerio, Bassey described finding easy opportunities rolling alongside the attention Curry attracts.
After our November 1 coverage of Golden State’s reserve contributions, this identifies how another supporting player can benefit. Curry scored 34, but the Warriors also needed Bassey’s eight rebounds and replacement frontcourt minutes after Draymond Green’s ejection. The partnership supplied offense while Golden State managed an unexpected shortage.
Recent Results from Our Watchlist
NBA
- Tuesday, November 3, 2026: Phoenix Suns 113 at Golden State Warriors 116, final. Curry scored 34; Bassey added 19.
- Tuesday, November 3, 2026: Miami Heat 117 at Los Angeles Lakers 138, final. Doncic had 42 points and 13 assists.
PBA
- Tuesday, November 3, 2026: Converge FiberXers 105, Rain or Shine Elasto Painters 89, final. Converge held Rain or Shine to 14 fourth-quarter points and leads 2-1.
- Tuesday, November 3, 2026: San Miguel Beermen 101, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel 98, final. Fajardo shot 7 of 7; Ginebra leads 2-1.
Important Games to Watch This Week
All dates and tipoff times are Philippine time.
NBA
- Thursday, November 5, 2026, 8:30 AM: Milwaukee Bucks at Boston Celtics
Location: TD Garden, Boston, United States.
Why watch: Boston needs a response after Houston ended its five-game winning streak. - Thursday, November 5, 2026, 11 AM: Los Angeles Lakers at Sacramento Kings
Location: Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, United States.
Why watch: Sacramento must choose how much defensive attention to commit to Doncic. - Friday, November 6, 2026, 11 AM: Miami Heat at Golden State Warriors
Location: Chase Center, San Francisco, United States.
Why watch: Track Curry’s screening partnerships and Golden State’s available frontcourt rotation.
PBA
- Friday, November 6, 2026, tipoff to be confirmed: Barangay Ginebra San Miguel vs. San Miguel Beermen
Location: Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City, Philippines.
Why watch: Ginebra gets a second chance to close the quarterfinal series.
Watch whether Ginebra creates cleaner finishing opportunities in Game 4 while limiting Fajardo’s catches near the basket. Should the Kings keep trusting their perimeter shots late, or look harder for a finish inside?
Exclusive Sources
Story 2: Tim Cone’s message to Homer Sayson at spin.ph.