Author: Bon Maddagan
Photo Credit: PBA Images
Rain or Shine needed five more minutes to overcome a stubborn Magnolia team on September 29th. After a forgettable Game 2 loss where they suffered a 52-point beat down, the Elasto Painters bounced back and are now a game away from advancing to the semi-finals.
Aaron Fuller Leads Rain or Shine with Stellar Performance
Despite being questionable at the start of the game due to a left eye injury, Aaron Fuller came out and ignited his squad. Playing through the pain and discomfort, he still delivered 29 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Fuller shone particularly brightly in overtime, scoring 9 of the team’s 13 points and securing crucial rebounds. Jhonard Clarito also stepped up, contributing 18 points and 8 rebounds. Four other players also reached double-digit scoring.
For Magnolia, it was Jabari Bird who paced his squad with a strong 31 points and 10 rebounds. While Zavier Lucero provided solid support, contributing 24 points and 9 rebounds.
Rain or Shine dominated the first half, building a lead of up to 18 points. But the Hotshots rallied to keep the game more interesting. The fightback was inspired by Zavier Lucero, who also emerged as the hero in the last minute of regulation. He converted a three-point play then knocked a clutch four-point shot to tie the game at 98 and force overtime.
The overtime period was filled with drama. With seconds remaining and the Hotshots trailing 106-104, Lucero’s layup was blocked by Clarito, forcing Magnolia to foul. However, after a review, the block was deemed goaltending, tying the game at 106. But Magnolia had already sent Mamuyac to the free throw line, where he split his attempts. Fuller would then snatch the rebound away and extend the lead to three (109-106). Rain or Shine took the win from there.
The Scores (OT):
- RAIN OR SHINE 111 – Fuller 29, Clarito 18, Mamuyac 15, Caracut 15, Santillan 13, Belga 10, Nocum 6, Norwood 5, Tiongson 0, Lemetti 0
- MAGNOLIA 106 – Bird 31, Lucero 24, Dionisio 12, Sangalang 9, Ahanmisi 9, Abueva 8, Barroca 6, Lee 6, Mendoza 1, Dela Rosa 0, Reavis 0
- QUARTERS: 29-18, 50-38, 73-66, 98-98, 111-106
