San Miguel Beer opens its title defense against the still winless Phoenix in the first Tuesday doubleheader of PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Dec. 3.

The Beermen aim for a strong start to their title-retention bid albeit they will not be parading Bennie Boatwright as their import, at least, for their opening game at 7:30 p.m. against the Fuel Masters.

Instead, SMB’s East Asia Super League import Quincy Miller will be taking over the import spot as he joins forces with June Mar Fajardo, CJ Perez and Marcio Lassiter. 

Of course, all eyes will also be on their biggest offseason acquisition in former Terrafirma main man Juami Tiongson.

Interestingly, Tiongson’s former team is set to provide the fitting appetizer to the clash when it guns for its first win against NLEX at 5 p.m.

The Dyip, who seemingly went under rebuilding phase yet anew, struggled through the first two games of the conference, losing horribly against Converge, 87-116 and Northort, 101-113.

NLEX, however, could be another tough opponent to face for Terrafirma as Robert Bolick finally got it going in the Road Warriors’ 107-93 win over the Blackwater Bossing.

For Tiongson, greener pastures are certainly in front of him now, especially with the Beermen already a proven perennial contender in any of the three conferences.

Adjustments might still be there as Tiongson, along with Andreas Cahilig, who was also part of the deal, try to find their roles in a loaded SMB roster that still features veteran Chris Ross and quality players like Don Trollano, Jericho Cruz, and Kris Rosales.

Phoenix may have a shot against SMB though, especially with the wide-bodied Donovan Smith providing the height and heft to contain an eight-time MVP in Fajardo inside the paint.

Guys like Jason Perkins, Ken Tuffin, Ricci Rivero and Tyler Tio, however, must still bring their A-games to try and match the Beermen’s firepower.