PBA Finals: Jeff Chan looks forward to Game 7 between TNT, Ginebra

A game in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals between Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings and TNT Tropang 5G. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines— Former PBA champion Jeff Chan believes the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals between Barangay Ginebra and TNT remain too close to call, with the series showcasing a matchup of evenly matched teams and veteran coaches.

Speaking during the Dayo23 basketball event in Tondo, Manila, the former Ginebra sharpshooter said neither side holds a clear edge in the best-of-seven championship series, which is tied at one game apiece.

“It’s pretty much even,” Chan told reporters. “Coach Chot Reyes is a champion coach with a lot of experience. The same can be said about coach Tim Cone. It’s hard to say who has the advantage.”

Instead of predicting a winner, Chan said he hopes the championship showdown goes the distance.

“I’m just hoping we get a good series that reaches a Game 7,” he said.

TNT leveled the series Friday night with a 101-94 victory in Game 2 at Smart Araneta Coliseum after Ginebra won the opener.

Chan pointed to TNT’s health as a key factor in the series. The Tropang 5G have dealt with injuries during previous Finals appearances, and he said staying healthy could be crucial to their title bid.

“For TNT, I hope they stay healthy because in their previous Finals runs, they were often affected by injuries,” Chan said.

Ginebra, meanwhile, possesses a significant advantage in resident import Justin Brownlee, according to Chan.

“Ginebra’s advantage is Justin,” he said. “He’s very experienced when it comes to championships.”

Chan, who won multiple titles during his PBA career and spent several seasons with Ginebra, declined to pick a favorite to win the championship, saying he is focused on seeing quality basketball from both teams.

Game 3 of the Commissioner’s Cup Finals is scheduled Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena, with tipoff set for 7:30 p.m.