The countdown to 2025 isn't just about fireworks and feasts -- it's a time for reflection, reinvention, and resolving to do better. The resumption of the PBA Commissioner's Cup marks a fresh start and an opportunity for each team to reset, recharge, and aim higher.
We take a look at the New Year's resolutions for all 12 PBA teams as they prepare for another thrilling Commissioner's Cup. Will they keep their promises?
NorthPort Batang Pier: Pushing in transition
NorthPort's campaign has been impressive, ranking in the top five in both offense and defense this conference. Averaging just 22.1 assists per game -- good for eighth among 13 teams -- hasn't hindered the team's efficiency. A key factor behind this success is their ability to excel in transition and consistently convert fast breaks into easy points.
InStat reveals that NorthPort uses the second-highest percentage of possessions in transition at 15.7%. This aggressive style has paid off, making them the third-best team in both scoring per possession (1.12) and total points per game (16.4) in this play type.
Now that NorthPort leads the league in steals and blocks, they will need to continue this pressure to ignite their transition game. Leading the charge is Joshua Munzon, who has been a key contributor to NorthPort's fast-paced offense. His ability to create scoring opportunities in the open court and capitalize on quick possessions has been instrumental in the team's success. Munzon's versatility and energy have helped set the tone for NorthPort, making him a standout performer in their impressive campaign.
Rain or Shine Elasto Painters: Ball screen coverages
Under head coach Yeng Guiao's free-flowing offensive system, Rain or Shine has thrived by making quick decisions that keep opposing defenses on their heels. They lead the league in transition points per game (18.8), rank second in catch-and-shoot scoring (18.6), and third in catch-and-drive plays (7.6), according to InStat.
Defensively, they've been solid as well, ranking fourth in defensive rating by allowing just 82 points per 100 possessions. Their collective effort on this end has forced opponents into tough shots and limited scoring runs. However, one area for improvement is their defense against ball screens. InStat data shows that Rain or Shine allows the most points per game (11.6) to ball handlers in pick-and-roll situations, exposing a weakness that teams have begun to exploit. If they can tighten their pick-and-roll coverage and improve their defensive rotations, Rain or Shine could elevate their already competitive game to a new level.
Eastern: Free throws and rebounding
Eastern has played as cohesive a basketball unit as any team in the conference. Their ball movement and continuity offense have consistently created opportunities on nearly every possession. This efficiency has made Eastern the best 3-point shooting team, converting 40.3% of their attempts, and third in assists per game at 24.9 -- a testament to their unselfish and disciplined play.
To solidify themselves as true contenders, however, Eastern will need to bring more physicality, particularly to support their import, Chris McLaughlin. With Glen Yang and Hayden Blankley excelling as perimeter-oriented players, others must step up to generate points even when outside shots aren't falling.
The team currently ranks fourth lowest in free-throw attempts (22.9 per game) and struggles with converting at the line (67.2%). Their offensive rebounding also leaves much to be desired, ranking 10th in the conference at only 10.6 rebounds per game. Addressing these shortcomings will be crucial for Eastern to sustain success, especially in tighter, more physical matchups where second-chance opportunities and free throws often make the difference.
Converge FiberXers: Turnovers
With their full roster finally in action, Converge has hit their stride, boasting the league's best offensive rating at 88.5 points per 100 possessions. A major catalyst for this surge has been Jordan Heading, who has delivered spectacular performances in his first PBA stint. Heading is averaging 17.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game while shooting an impressive 50% from the field, 39% from beyond the arc, and 89% from the free-throw line over eight games. His efficient and versatile play has been instrumental in Converge's offensive dominance.
Despite Heading's brilliance as the team's primary ball handler, Converge still faces challenges with ball security, averaging 15.4 turnovers per game. This has been particularly problematic for Alec Stockton, who has struggled to find consistency, leading the team with 3.5 turnovers per contest. For Converge to sustain their offensive momentum, the supporting guards will need to refine their decision-making and tighten their ball distribution. Minimizing turnovers will be key as they look to maximize their offensive firepower and compete at the highest level.
Barangay Ginebra: Scottie Thompson's scoring
Each conference, fans have come to expect Ginebra's stellar offense, driven by the timeless triangle system under head coach Tim Cone. Regardless of who is on the court, the team thrives on disciplined play, ball movement, and a commitment to being willing passers - a hallmark of Cone's system
For years, Scottie Thompson has been one of Ginebra's primary playmakers, leveraging his exceptional basketball IQ to initiate their offense. However, with injuries disrupting the lineup, the team now needs Thompson to take on a larger scoring role. In six games, the former PBA MVP has averaged 10.5 points on an efficient 50.9% shooting. While respectable, his 8.8 shot attempts per game fall short of what Ginebra requires given their current circumstances. As the team battles through adversity, Thompson's ability to step up offensively will be crucial in maintaining Ginebra's offensive rhythm and keeping their championship aspirations alive.
Meralco Bolts: Creativity in defending screens
For years, Meralco's success has been built on a rock-solid defensive identity, a cornerstone of their first-ever PBA championship. However, this conference has been a stark contrast, with the Bolts struggling defensively. They currently hold the league's worst defensive rating, allowing 91.5 points per 100 possessions -- a far cry from their usual standards.
The struggles become even more apparent when examining their performance against pick-and-roll plays. According to InStat, Meralco allows the most points per game to roll men in pick-and-roll situations, giving up 5.6 points per contest. To regain their defensive edge, the Bolts will need to tighten their schemes and rotations, particularly in handling screens, if they hope to reclaim their identity as a defensive powerhouse.
TNT Tropang Giga: Transition defense
Defense was TNT's hallmark during their run to defend the championship in the last Governors' Cup. This conference, the duo of Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Calvin Oftana has been pivotal in their early success, leading to two wins. Hollis-Jefferson continues to deliver all-around performances, while Oftana has opened the conference on fire, showcasing his sharpshooting
However, their defensive dominance has yet to resurface, as they rank only seventh in defensive rating, allowing 86.3 points per 100 possessions. Much of this decline stems from their lackluster transition defense, where they concede a league-worst 14.3 points per game. Additionally, TNT has struggled to guard backdoor cuts, giving up seven points per game in this area. If they hope to contend for another title, restoring their defensive intensity and tightening up these weak spots will be key moving forward.
San Miguel Beermen: Overall offense
It's hard to believe, but San Miguel currently holds the worst offensive rating in the conference, managing just 81.3 points per 100 possessions. For a team loaded with star talent, such a dismal performance is nothing short of unacceptable.
San Miguel's struggles stem, in part, from their ongoing difficulty in finding the right reinforcement. Jabari Narcis is already the team's third import this conference, reflecting their inconsistency in securing a dependable fit. Additionally, CJ Perez has yet to regain his usual form, averaging a less impactful 15 points per game on an inefficient 47.5% true shooting. Compounding the issue is his carelessness with the ball, averaging 2.7 turnovers per contest. If San Miguel hopes to turn their season around, they'll need Perez to step up and play to his potential while also addressing their import situation to stabilize the team's offensive identity.
NLEX Road Warriors: Kevin Alas' health
It's been a rollercoaster conference for NLEX, currently stuck in a three-game losing streak after seven outings. Mike Watkins has provided much-needed interior presence, and Robert Bolick has been stellar, living up to his reputation. However, two players alone can't carry the load, leaving NLEX with the seventh-best net rating in the conference (minus-2), according to InStat. Simply put, NLEX has been stuck in the middle of the pack.
While the team may lack the personnel to become an elite defensive unit, they have players who can help lighten the load for Watkins and Bolick. The returning Kevin Alas could be the key, given his proven ability. However, he's been underwhelming so far, averaging just 7.6 points on a subpar 33.5 TS%. If NLEX can find ways to integrate Alas more effectively into their offense, they could unlock another dimension to their game and climb out of their current slump.
Magnolia Hotshots: Veteran play
Magnolia's journey in this conference has been anything but smooth, as they find themselves clawing to climb out of a deep hole in the standings. Despite the struggles, their young stars have been a silver lining. Jerom Lastimosa has shown exceptional growth, while Zav Lucero's consistent contributions on both ends of the floor have been a bright spot.
Among the veterans, Mark Barroca has been a steady presence, averaging 13.7 points per game on an efficient 60.9% true shooting. However, the team has sorely missed the marksmanship of Paul Lee, whose season has been disrupted by health issues. Without a consistent rhythm, Lee has managed just 8.5 points per game while shooting a disappointing 33.3% from the field and 23.1% from beyond the arc, including the league's rare 4-point line. For Magnolia to spark a turnaround, they will need their veteran core, particularly Lee, to rediscover their form and provide the leadership and scoring punch the team desperately needs.
Phoenix Fuel Masters: Unleash Ken Tuffin
Phoenix's biggest challenge this conference has been providing sufficient local support for Jason Perkins. While Donovan Smith has been stellar, averaging the second-most points among active imports at 30.8 per game, the improved play of Fil-Kiwi forward Ken Tuffin could be the key to helping Phoenix climb the standings.
Tuffin has stepped up his game, contributing 8.7 points and 5.7 rebounds per contest on an impressive 71.4 TS%. His shooting from beyond the arc has been particularly notable, connecting at an excellent 44.3% clip. If Tuffin can continue this level of production and the rest of the locals step up to match his energy, Phoenix may find the balance they need to complement their import's dominance and make a strong push in the conference.
Blackwater Bossing: Rebounding issues
When Blackwater decided to bring back George King for the Commissioner's Cup, they knowingly accepted a significant disadvantage: Facing taller, more dominant frontcourts from opposing teams. Unfortunately, this weakness has been glaring throughout the conference, proving to be a major hurdle in their performance.
The statistics paint a clear picture of this struggle. Blackwater ranks last in total rebounds, defensive rebounds, and offensive rebounds. Compounding the issue, they allow the second-most points per game in post-up situations (9.2) and the third-most points off putbacks (7.7).
Blackwater will need to find ways to offset their rebounding deficiencies -- whether by tightening their defensive rotations or getting more physical in boxing out. Without addressing this glaring gap, their uphill battle against larger lineups will only continue.
Terrafirma Dyip: Their identity
After going winless in eight games, Terrafirma's immediate focus should shift to development and identifying areas for incremental improvement. Currently, they rank second-worst in both offense and defense this conference, with a glaring lack of direction on both ends of the court.
The team must decide whether to bolster their roster with more experienced veterans to support Vic Manuel or prioritize the growth of their young core, including Mark Nonoy, Kemark Cariño, and Brent Paraiso. As the conference winds down, Terrafirma's remaining games should serve as a testing ground to determine their path forward. Clarifying their strategy now will be crucial in laying the foundation for improvement in future conferences.