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Chris Ross believes RJ is 'going to be great for a long time'

Sure they had some tense moments in Game 6, but it's nothing personal. Just pure competition.
Jan 17, 2026
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Chris Ross and RJ Abarrientos battled all series long
PHOTO: Mark Cristino

CHRIS Ross and RJ Abarrientos exchanged some fiery words late in Game 6 of the PBA 50th Season Philippine Cup semifinals.

Ross fell down to the floor while being defended by Abarrientos that led to the verbal spat. When asked about the incident after Game 6, Ross said it is nothing personal, and gave Abarrientos his flowers for a well-played semifinal series.

“It’s just basketball,” said Ross. “It’s a good match-up because he doesn’t take it personal.”

The veteran in Chris Ross once again got the best out of young rising star RJ Abarrientos

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READ: Cone concedes SMB as 'obviously the better team' after bowing out

Ross was on the winning end of Game 6 when San Miguel ousted Barangay Ginebra, 101-88, on Friday.

Ross was a steady presence especially on defense for San Miguel with eight points, four rebounds, four assists, and two steals.

Abarrientos finished with 12 points and five assists for Barangay Ginebra in the defeat.

Despite the tense moment, Ross found time to speak with Abarrientos after Game 6.

“I just said keep going and keep working,” said Ross.

Ross said what he liked about Abarrientos is that he doesn’t back down on any challenge as shown in their one-on-one match-up.

READ: CJ Perez says he was simply feeling it in career night for SMB

The San Miguel veteran also said the Ginebra sophomore guard will be the future of the league.

“When I talk, he will talk a little bit back to me to give me a little hit at the end of the game. But it’s all in jest,” said Ross.

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“He is young in this league. He’s young and he’s going to be great for a long time. We’ll all see it, and hopefully, he just continues his path,” he continued.

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Chris Ross and RJ Abarrientos battled all series long
PHOTO: Mark Cristino
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