MANILA, Philippines — Rain or Shine found a way to break free from Magnolia’s airtight defense as it pulled off a 91-82 win to tighten its grip in the top spot of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup standings on Saturday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Down by as many as 12 points in the first half, the Elasto Painters unleashed 53 points in the second half to turn the tables against the Hotshots.
Import Jaylen Johnson and Gian Mamuyac led ROS’ spirited charge, combining for 22 points in the third quarter alone where the team outscored Magnolia, 28-21.
The Elasto Painters pressed on in the final period, managing to push the ball in transition, which enabled them to get back on the winning track after seeing their 7-0 start come to an end several days ago via its 83-89 loss to Phoenix.
Mamuyac and Johnson led ROS with 25 points each, while Jhon Clarito flirted with a double-double, scoring 18 ang grabbing nine boards.
The final 81 seconds of the game was also marred by a verbal altercation between ROS coach Yeng Guiao and Magnolia team consultant Erick Arejola with both assessed with technical fouls.
Clint Chapman led the Hotshots with 17 points and 11 rebounds but fouled out late in the game. Jerom Lastimosa and Zav Lucero added 16 each for Magnolia, which dropped to 4-5.
