LeRoy Hickerson slams over Gabe Norwood. Photo by Nuki Sabio
MANILA, Philippines—Jeff Chan led a balanced attack by Rain or Shine as it turned back Barako Bull, 100-90, Sunday in the 2012 PBA Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Chan shot 19 points on six-of-11 shooting the field. The Elasto Painters remained atop the heap as they nabbed their sixth win in seven games.
“We didn’t need Jamelle (Cornley) to score a lot of points; we got enough points from the locals and not burden Jamelle with the scoring anymore,” said ROS head coach Yeng Guiao.
Cornley scored just 18 points but did it in just three quarters as Rain or Shine built enough cushion, 76-59.
Guiao also credited his team’s defense on the Energy’s explosive import Leroy Hickerson.
Hickerson, who’s averaging 35 points per game coming in, tallied just 24 points with most of his points scored in the final stretch where the game was virtually over.
“We prepared hard for Hickerson. We knew he was averaging 35 points and seven assists per game so Gabe (Norwood) and Jireh (Ibanes) alternated on him and did a good job,” added Guiao, whose squad had already clinched a semifinals berth following an 81-77 win over Meralco last Friday.
“We did a good job closing out quarters. We’re able to protect our lead. We played good defense overall.”
Paul Lee suffered an injury late in the first half and did not return for precautionary measures. Lee had four points in just eight minutes of action.
“Paul had problems with his shoulders. I don’t think it’s serious but since we have a good lead at that time, the only reason I would put him in is when I need him. TY (Tang) and Gabe were doing a good job at the point guard position so it wasn’t necessary. But if we needed him, he can actually play. It’s better to just give him a rest,” said Guiao.
A Jervy Cruz basket gave ROS its biggest lead at 19, 92-73, with 5:10 left.
Norwood also shone with 15 points, five rebounds and five assists.
Barako Bull, which dropped to 3-3, at one point led by seven, 18-11, before Rain or Shine ended the opening quarter strong to regain the lead for good.