PBA: Anton Asistio steps up as Rain or Shine flaunts depth in win

Rain or Shine guard Anton Asistio.–PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Rain or Shine’s escape act over NLEX in Group B of the PBA Governors’ Cup was missing one of the Elasto Painters’ main men.

Andrei Caracut, who’s coach Yeng Guiao’s usual starter at point guard, barely saw action in the Elasto Painters’ quarterfinal-clinching victory on Tuesday.

Instead, it was Anton Asistio who stepped up to the plate to help Rain or Shine outlast NLEX in overtime, 123-114, at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

To be clear, Caracut’s not dealing with any injury that would’ve explained his limited minutes.

It was just one of those games where Guiao played his cards right.

READ: PBA: Rain or Shine trips NLEX in OT to clinch quarterfinals spot

Rain or Shine’s Anton Asistio and coach Yeng Guiao after the overtime win over NLEX. @INQUIRERSports https://t.co/wnrGL8ezZK pic.twitter.com/fqTt6T287W

— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) September 17, 2024

“Andrei has no problem. Anton just played well and he took Andrei’s playing time,” said Guiao in Filipino.

“That’s how it is. If it was Andrei who played good then it’s him who’ll take Anton’s minutes. They’ll just take each other’s minutes in that same position,” the multi-titled mentor added.

Asistio’s timely explosion was just one of the many exhibits of Rain or Shine’s selfless culture.

With Caracut struggling, Asistio picked up the slack with 25 points, three rebounds and two assists.

And no, there was no jealousy between Ateneo product Asistio and former La Salle standout Caracut.

There’s just a bunch of talent at Guiao’s disposal.

READ: PBA: Aaron Fuller looks ahead after Rain or Shine loss to Ginebra

“I’m just playing the right way. Coach tells us every day how he wants us to play. Anyone he puts in can go. There’s no first, second or third unit,” said Asistio.

“We’re all on the same level but I’m happy we got the win because it secures us for the quarterfinals. I wouldn’t play like this if it wasn’t for my teammates,” he added.

Now at 6-2 with a sure spot in the next round, Guiao continued to enjoy the luxury of having a roster in which anyone can explode at any given time.

Guiao said that Asistio and Caracut’s situation was an example of Rain or Shine’s depth.

“That gives us a lot of flexibility in the team. It keeps the morale of the guys high because they know that we’re looking for opportunities for them without sacrificing the result of the game,” said Guiao.

“The reason we’re able to use them like this is because I’m willing to gamble on my players. Other coaches aren’t willing to do that but there are different ways in winning.”