Author: Bon Maddagan
Photo Credit: PBA Images
Rain or Shine squandered a significant lead but managed to hold on for a crucial victory against TNT on October 13, securing their first win of the series. Despite the Elasto Painters’ breakthrough, TNT still holds a 2-1 advantage in the series.
In their previous two meetings with TNT, Rain or Shine appeared far from the top team that we saw in Group B. Once known for being the best offensive unit in the conference, were held to under 100 points in both contests. However, the Elasto Painters looked like they finally rediscovered their identity just in time to stay alive in the series.
Leonard Santillan was instrumental in Rain or Shine’s resurgence, shaking off his shooting struggles to deliver 20 points, including 4-of-7 from deep. While Aaron Fuller maintained his dominant presence with a highly efficient outing, posting 26 points, 16 rebounds, and shooting 10-of-15 from the field
TNT Stars Shine, But Crucial Misses Prove Costly
Despite strong performances from their star players, TNT couldn’t capitalize. JP Erram had a breakout game, scoring 27 points along with 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks. Roger Pogoy added 22 points, while Rey Nambatac and Calvin Oftana chipped in with 17 each. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson notched another triple-double, contributing 23 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds, but missed two crucial opportunities to seal the game, leaving TNT short in the end.
Rain or Shine was leading by as much as 15 in the third (64-49) but TNT slowly crawled their way back to the game. RHJ led an 11-2 run that erased the deficit. Erram would then score on a layup to put them ahead.
But with the game on the line, Aaron Fuller came to the rescue for Rain or Shine. He scored on a putback to tie it at 107, then converted a three-point play with 3.8 seconds left to claim the lead. On the final possession, Fuller’s defense on Hollis-Jefferson held strong allowing them to escape with the win.
The Scores :
- RAIN OR SHINE 110 – Fuller 26, Santillan 20, Clarito 15, Lemetti 11, Nocum 10, Datu 7, Mamuyac 6, Norwood 6, Caracut 5, Belga 2, Asistio 2
- TNT 109 – Erram 27, Hollis-Jefferson 23, Pogoy 22, Nambatac 17, Oftana 17, Aurin 2, Khobuntin 1, Galinato 0, Exciminiano 0, Varilla 0, Heruela 0
- QUARTERS: 23-27, 51-43, 86-78, 110-109
