The Rain or Shine Elastopainters are refusing to go quietly, securing a dominant 113-97 victory over Tropang 5G in Game 5 of the 49th PBA Philippine Cup semifinals. This crucial win trims TNT’s series lead to 3-2, keeping Rain or Shine’s finals hopes alive.
The Elastopainters capitalized on the absence of suspended TNT coach Chot Reyes, asserting their dominance early and maintaining control throughout the game. “At last, we’ve won two games in the semis. Coach Chot Reyes was not coaching. But he will be coaching in the next game,” noted Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao, acknowledging the challenge that lies ahead.
Rain or Shine established a 56-52 lead by halftime, then broke away in the third quarter.
Spearheaded by Gian Mamuyac’s game-high 22 points, the Elastopainters unleashed an offensive surge.
Jhonard Clarito contributed seven of his 19 points in that pivotal period, combining with Keith Datu and Andrei Caracut for 21 points to give Rain or Shine a commanding 93-64 advantage heading into the final frame.
“We survived another day. So, we have a game on Sunday. This is the closest we are to the finals,” a determined Guiao remarked after the game.
Despite strong efforts from Calvin Oftana, who led TNT with 23 points, and Simon Enciso, who added 20 points, Tropang 5G couldn’t mount a sufficient comeback.
Enciso’s four-point play late in the fourth quarter narrowed the lead to 15 (108-93), but Rain or Shine held firm.
“We look at this as a positive development for us,” Guiao added, as his team now has the opportunity to equalize the series. Game 6 is set for Sunday at 7:30 PM at the Big Dome.