Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net
Rain or Shine grabbed a share of the early lead in the 2018 PBA Commissioner’s Cup after a 108-89 victory over debuting Ginebra Sunday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“Finally, we were able to beat Ginebra,” sighed ROS coach Caloy Garcia as the
Elasto Painters scored a victory against the Gin Kings for the first time since beating them in the same conference last season.
Rain or Shine went to its advantage in the paint as Raymond Almazan poured seven of his 20 points in the fourth quarter, on top of his eight rebounds and two blocks, while Reggie Johnson also uncorked 16 points, seven in the final frame, alongside 15 boards, three assists, and three blocks to stay unscathed at 2-0.
Ed Daquioag also added 17 points and two rebounds, while James Yap got 13 points on a 3-of-5 shooting from threes as the team collectively shot 14-of-36 from downtown.
“A 2-0 start is always good,” said Garcia. “The other locals stepped up today, so as long as we do the same thing every day, we’ll be fine.”
The Elasto Painters were quick to impose control on the game, taking a 46-26 lead in the second quarter before staving off the numerous rallies from the Gin Kings.
Japeth Aguilar topped Ginebra with 28 points, 12 rebounds, and three blocks, while Charles Garcia had an uneventful debut with his 19 points, eight assists, and six boards.
The Scores:
RAIN OR SHINE 108 — Almazan 20, Daquioag 17, Johnson 16, Yap 13, Ahanmisi 10, Belga 7, Norwood 5, Onwubere 3, Washington 3, Casiño 2, Ponferada 2, Borboran 0, Matias 0, Torres 0.
GINEBRA 89 — J. Aguilar 28, Garcia 19, Tenorio 13, Devance 11, Mercado 7, Ferrer 3, Thompson 3, Caguioa 2, Mariano 2, Caperal 1, R. Aguilar 0.
Quarters: 27-16m 49-34, 75-64, 108-89.