PROLIFIC Paul Lee of Rain or Shine (front) battles Jared Dillinger or Meralco for possession. AUGUST DELA CRUZ
MANILA, Philippines—Meralco puts a franchise-best 3-0 start on the line Wednesday as it goes for the solo lead in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup eliminations again against formidable Rain or Shine at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
Tip-off is at 4:15 p.m. with the Bolts seeking to move ahead of co-leaders Purefoods and Barako Bull even as Globalport tests new import Calvin Warner at 7 p.m. against Alaska.
Meralco has gotten the job done so far with an unorthodox but energetic import in Josh Davis and the resurgent firepower of the veteran Gary David.
David is actually one of just two locals who are in the top 10 in scoring after two weeks of action, averaging 21 points a contest while leading everyone else in three-point shooting with 62 percent.
But the Bolts will have their hands full with Rain or Shine and the hulking Rick Jackson.
Gabe Norwood would most probably be asked to put the clamps on Gilas Pilipinas teammate David, who comes off the bench for coach Norman Black.
Rain or Shine has posted two straight victories after dropping its initial assignment against Talk ‘N Text.
Paul Lee has undoubtedly been the catalyst of the Painters, with support from Jeff Chan, Jonathan Uyloan and a host of other locals.
Meanwhile, despite averaging 29 points and over 13 rebounds in his first three games, CJ Leslie got his walking papers from Globalport (1-2).
Leslie proved to be a good offensive weapon for the Batang Pier, who are looking for an import who can dominate inside on both ends.
Warner is a 34-year-old veteran with extensive pro exposure overseas, particularly in the Middle East.
Local big men Yancy de Ocampo and Kelly Nabong are injured, but Terrence Romeo is expected to again take much of the scoring load for Globalport. Romeo averages 23 points a contest and is the other local in the top 10.