The recent controversy surrounding the PBA's playoff format, which sparked comments from Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao, has led some to speculate whether it favors San Miguel Corporation (SMC) teams. However, a deeper analysis reveals no clear bias towards SMC teams.
First, the format was shared with all teams before the tournament began, giving them ample opportunity to raise concerns. None did. Furthermore, the current bracket has San Miguel and Barangay Ginebra, both SMC teams, placed in the same group, meaning only one can reach the finals. If the intent were to favor SMC, why would both its powerhouse teams face each other before the championship?
Coach Guiao’s primary concern stems from the fact that the top teams from Group A and B (TNT and Rain or Shine) may meet in the semifinals rather than the finals. His point is that being the number one seed should offer a clearer path to the championship, and the current structure might disincentivize that.
However, the bigger picture suggests this format may have simply been an oversight rather than an intentional move to benefit any single team. Ultimately, no format is perfect, and this serves as a learning point for future PBA seasons.
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