By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Rain or Shine Elaastopainters pulled off a dominant fourth-quarter showing to repulse the struggling San Miguel Beermen, 107-93, in the ongoing PBA Commissioner’s Cup on December 10, 2024, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
After failing to capitalize on their fiery second-quarter run when they retook the lead from San Miguel, the Elastoapainters entered emergency mode when they trailed by three points at the ninth- minute mark of the fourth frame.
However, in just a blink of an eye, coach Yeng Guiao’s wards steamrolled their way to a momentum-clinching 12-0 scoring run that put them back in the driver’s seat, 88-78.
The young duo of Adrian Nocum and Keith Datu spearheaded Rain or Shine’s counterattack after spraying timely three-pointers while overpowering their way against San Miguel’s tough interior defense.
Nocum kicked off the rally, scoring on an acrobatic layup followed by a trey. Datu then continued their quick run with several post deuces and a trey that extended Rain or Shine’s lead to double digits.
After that wild sequence, the Elastopainters took total control of the ball game and didn’t allow the Beermen to set up their half-court sets.
According to Guiao, Rain or Shine’s high-octane showing in the final canto was a planned scheme, adding that it is the only way that they can catch the Beermen off guard.
Known as one of the slowest-paced teams in the league, San Miguel relies on the post prowess of the reigning Most Valuable Player (MVP) June Mar Fajardo.
Aside from Fajardo’s interior dominance, San Miguel’s attack came from his kick-out passes to their shooters when he got doubled team in the second half.
“Pagka nakipag-halfcourt game ka sa kanila, wala kang chance manalo. The only chance for us to win is to play at a pace where they may not be comfortable,” said Guiao after the win.
During the final 12 minutes of the ball game, Rain or Shine outscored the Beermen, 37-21, and secured their second straight win in the import-laced conference.
Deon Thompson, Rain or Shine’s import, paced his squad with an all-around performance of 18 points, four rebounds, and three assists.
Caelan Tiongson then led all locals with 14 markers, three boards, and two dimes, while Datu and Felix Lemetti each chipped in 12 points.
