PBA: Jayson Castro returns, boosts TNT win over Rain or Shine
MANILA, Philippines—Jayson Castro made a solid contribution in his return as TNT feasted on the Rain or Shine squad that was missing its import and produced a 110-91 win in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Saturday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Castro had 10 points, four rebounds and six assists in 13 minutes after missing the first two games of the midseason conference due to an ankle injury sustained during the Tropang Giga’s loss to the San Miguel Beermen in the Philippine Cup Finals.
Article continues after this advertisementHis debut in the midseason conference came days after inking a three-year deal to remain with the team he has played since his PBA debut in the 2008-09 season.
Import Cameron Oliver scored 21 points, RR Pogoy had 15 and backup Jaydee Tungcab added 14 on a perfect 3-of-3 clip from three-point land as TNT improved to 2-1.
Rain or Shine suffered a second straight loss to go 2-3 as it played minus import Steve Taylor Jr. after being placed under health and safety protocols.
Article continues after this advertisementBut the Elasto Painters threatened late in the first half when they cut a 22-point deficit down to 55-50 at the half, only for the Tropang Giga to regain their bearings in the final two quarters.Rey Nambatac finished with 20 points for the Elasto Painters.
The Scores:
TNT 110 — Oliver 21, Pogoy 15, Oftana 15, Tungcab 14, Castro 10, Montalbo 8, Williams M. 8, Alejandro 6, Ganuelas-Rosser 5 , Erram 4, Williams K. 2, Marcelo 2, Cruz 0.
RAIN OR SHINE 91 — Nambatac 20, Caracut 12, Asistio 11, Santillan 11, Ildefonso 9, Belga 7, Mamuyac 4, Norwood 4, Ponferrada 4, Borboran 4, Demusis 2, Guinto 1, Nieto 1, Torres 1.
Quarters: 41-20, 55-50, 86-64, 110-91.