Paul Lee believes loss to San Miguel in Finals will make Magnolia a better team

Lright pieces which formed the nucleus of its championship unit.

Until it won the 2015 Philippine Cup title, San Miguel actually hadn't won a crown since the 2011 Governors Cup.

But after that, the Beermen had been on a roll, claiming six of the last 10 conferences championships, including a historic four straight all-Filipino crown.

Lee sees San Miguel as a perfect model for Magnolia.

"Sabi nga ni coach Chito (Victolero), kailangan naming dumaan, as a team, sa ganung klaseng experience. Mas magiging buo yung samahan ng team, ng mga players kung samasama kami," said the 29year-old guard from Tondo.

In essence, the Hotshots did overachieve last conference as they finally got past the semifinals phase after thrice making the Final Four of all three conferences during the league's 42nd season.

The finals stint was also the very first for the franchise since its grand slam season in 2014. Sponsored content: "Very proud ako ano man yung naabot namin ngayon," said the University of the East alum, who won two championships and saw action in six Finals appearances during his stint with Rain or Shine.

"Balang araw lahat ng hardwork namin, magbubunga rin yan."

Lee is currently taking advantage of the conference break by traveling for a quick respite in Japan with wife Rubie before the Hotshots begin their training camp this Friday in preparation for the mid-season Commissioner's Cup where the team will parade Vernon Macklin as its import.

Magnolia won't play its first game until the first week of May. (RG)

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