Lucia emerging on top of the wildcard standings, an elimination game was played to determine which team will advance to the quarterfinals.

The Realtors were tired, head coach Alfrancis Chua said, of losing, at the post-game press conference after their victory at the Araneta Coliseum.

Lucia kept up with the Barakos but were outlasted at the fourth quarter to drop out of contention; Red Bull now has four straight semifinals appearances.

In the third game however, with Pingris wearing a face mask, he was again injured in the second quarter, this time in the left ankle.

Ginebra, despite having a month's rest, was dealt with a blow when team captain Eric Menk was injured in a bar brawl.

Game 1 saw Ginebra blow out the Phone Pals as the league's scoring leader Mark Caguioa pumped in 34 points.

With momentum on their side, Cardona and former De La Salle teammate Ren-Ren Ritualo combined for 47 points to pull Talk 'N Text to the lead 2–1.

With Phone Pals having the possession, Asi Taulava failed to convert an undergoal stab which led to the Ginebra fastbreak with Mark Caguioa having an easy lay-up.

With their backs against the wall, the Phone Pals made a blistering start but the Kings were able to catch up and remain within striking distance.

Red Bull lead much of the first game, but the Beermen led by Dondon Hontiveros and Danny Ildefonso mounted a 19–2 run to draw first blood.

On Game 3, San Miguel continued their alternating wins against Red Bull in the playoffs as they pull ahead 2–1; Ildefonso was ejected at the fourth quarter after receiving two technical fouls after a skirmish against Enrico Villanueva and Mick Pennisi.

Facing elimination, Red Bull engaged San Miguel in a shooting contest until Yeng Guiao was caught throwing an elbow to Dondon Hontiveros; San Miguel assistant coach Biboy Ravanes yelled to the referees while another assistant coach, Pido Jarencio, charged towards the Red Bull bench coming almost in contact with Guiao.

San Miguel pulled away but Red Bull chipped the lead to appear at striking distance at the fourth quarter.

Helterbrand's backcourt partner, Mark Caguioa didn't have support from his teammates as San Miguel's Lordy Tugade shot the lights out at the Araneta Coliseum.