A win for Balkman’s 34th birthday

Renaldo Balkman may not have had 34 birthday candles or a celebratory cake, but he’ll take the win on his 34th birthday anytime.

San Miguel took the first game of its five-game semifinals series against Alaska in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, moving closer to another finals return.

“It’s always good when you get the win and celebrate your birthday at the same time,” said Balkman Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena. “I wish it was a championship that we won on my birthday but we got a long series left.”

Prior to the game against the Aces, Balkman had been on a tear in the offensive end, putting up 29.64 points while grabbing 13 rebounds a game.

READ: San Miguel draws first blood against Alaska as Standhardinger returns

The Puerto Rican, though, had a fairly easier outing with 13 points and 11 rebounds with the rest of the Beermen taking charge.

Balkman said that they can’t get too ahead of themselves as they still have to win two more games to advance to the title round.

“I mean, you got to take it one game at a time,” said Balkman. “I’m really motivated to go to the finals but we got two more left.”

As for the real celebration of his birthday, Balkman said he will go on a short break later in the year.

“I’ll save my celebration later this year when I get a couple of days off and when I’m not playing basketball,” said Balkman. “What counts right now is winning a championship and everybody already told happy birthday to me. It was a great win for us and it’s a great day for me.”