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Let me walk you through how to relive the epic PBA San Miguel vs TNT Game 3 showdown, because honestly, that game had everything you'd want from a championship battle. I've been following Philippine basketball for over a decade, and this matchup reminded me why I fell in love with the sport - the intensity, the drama, and those unbelievable clutch moments that leave you breathless.

First, you need to understand the context before diving into the highlights. The series was tied 1-1, and both teams knew Game 3 could swing the entire momentum. I always pay attention to the first quarter because it sets the tone, and boy, did TNT come out firing. They built an early 12-point lead by the 8-minute mark, with Roger Pogoy hitting three consecutive three-pointers that had the arena roaring. What impressed me most was how San Miguel didn't panic - they've been here before, and their championship DNA showed. My personal take is that June Mar Fajardo's quiet dominance in the paint, even when not scoring, creates so much space for his teammates. By halftime, San Miguel had clawed back to trail by just 4 points, 52-48, and you could feel the momentum shifting.

Now for the crucial third quarter analysis - this is where championships are often won. CJ Perez, who I've always believed is underrated in big moments, absolutely took over with 14 points in the quarter. His energy on both ends changed the game completely. Meanwhile, TNT's import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who'd been spectacular all conference, started forcing shots and committed 3 turnovers in a 5-minute span. That's the thing about pressure - it exposes even the best players. I noticed Coach Chot Reyes trying to adjust by going small ball, but San Miguel's defense was just too disciplined. The Beermen outscored TNT 32-18 in that decisive quarter, and honestly, that's where they won the game.

The fourth quarter was pure theater, with both teams trading baskets like heavyweight boxers. What many might miss when watching highlights is the strategic timeout management. With 3:12 remaining and San Miguel up by 7, Coach Jorge Gallent called a timeout that completely disrupted TNT's rhythm. I've counted at least 4 occasions this conference where his timeout timing directly impacted games. Then came the final minute - Mikey Williams hitting a contested three to bring TNT within 2, followed by Marcio Lassiter's cold-blooded corner three with 28 seconds left that essentially sealed it. That Lassiter shot? Pure championship mentality. The final score of 98-95 doesn't fully capture how back-and-forth those final minutes were.

Here's my biggest takeaway from studying this game - championships aren't just about talent, but about who executes under pressure. San Miguel shot 45% from three-point range compared to TNT's 32%, and that efficiency in crucial moments made the difference. Their bench outscored TNT's 38-22, which shows their depth advantage. Personally, I think this victory gives San Miguel psychological edge moving forward, especially how they weathered TNT's best punches. The PBA San Miguel vs TNT Game 3 wasn't just a basketball game - it was a masterclass in championship composure that we'll be talking about for years to come.