PBA: Nambatac comes up clutch anew as Rain or Shine beats Blackwater for last semis spot

MANILA, Philippines–Sophomore Rey Nambatac came to Rain or Shine’s rescue once again to take down Blackwater, 85-83, and round out the Final Four cast of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Thursday night at Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.

Nambatac emptied 12 of his 21 points in the fourth to help the Elasto Painters claw back into the game that was controlled by the Elite all night.

“He carried us in the game. Lumalagas talaga ‘yung maturity ni Rey,” said coach Caloy Garcia.

“Actually in the first half there was nothing right that we did,” he added. “But second half, we were able to settle down and lessen our turnovers and my players didn’t give up.”

Rain or Shine goes up against perennial powerhouse San Miguel Beer. They are set to open their race-to-five contest on Saturday also at the Big Dome.