As PBA resumes, Beermen make last push out of playoff disadvantage

San Miguel Beer knows the danger of falling in an upset to Blackwater: The Beermen face the possibility of going up against tall playoff odds in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

“That’s why this game against Blackwater is very important,” said San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria of the game against the Elite at 4:30 p.m. at Mall of Asia Arena.

Out of the running for a twice-to-beat edge in the quarterfinals, the Beermen (5-4) now set their sights on a No. 4 to No. 6 finish to avoid facing the squads that will flaunt the playoff bonus. Finishing in the middle of the pack guarantees the Beermen a best-of-three series.

“If we win, we could end up 5 or 6. But if we lose our last two games, we could fall into a tie for the lower two,” said Austria. “It will be difficult once that scenario happens.”

The Beermen will end their elimination round against the Magnolia Hotshots, who tapped the services of Wayne Chism opposite the NLEX Road Warriors in the other match that will start at around 7 p.m.

“He (Chism) is a more complete player. He knows how to play here, and I think he can help us a lot in terms of his experience,” said Magnolia coach Chito Victolero, who is hoping to keep his team’s playoff bid alive.