MANILA, Philippines — Rain or Shine and NLEX, the top two teams in the standings clash in a major match up in the main game of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup, which is now hitting the final stretches of the elimination round on Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The Elasto Painters, toting an 8-1 card, the best in the tournament, clash with the Road Warriors, currently tied at second with Barangay Ginebra Kings (7-2), at 7:30 p.m.
The opening game at 5:15 p.m. features Magnolia (4-5) and Titan Ultra (2-7).
ROS and NLEX already secured playoff berths, but intend to step up their bid to ensue their respective spots in the top 4, which will guarantee twice-to-beat incentives heading to the quarterfinal round.
The top 4 remains a wide-open race since Meralco and defending champion are still in contention with their respective records at 5-2 and 6-3.
Rain or Shine intends to keep its winning ways, being fresh from its 91-82 win against Magnolia last weekend, a good bounce-back victory since Phoenix inflicted to coach Yeng Guiao’s charges their first loss, 89-83.
“We still end up winning and it’s good that the team goes through those challenges because it will test your character. So it’s a good sign for us,” Guiao said, referring to the team’s ability to mount a comeback after trailing in the second half against the Hotshots.
As for NLEX, this will be the team’s golden chance to press on and continue to build on its character and grit since failing to go deep into the playoffs for several conferences already under Jong Uichico.
“We don’t lose faith, we don’t lose hope even when the chances are very slim. We give ourselves a shot all the time,” said Uichico.
ROS’ stocky import Jaylen Johnson and NLEX’s Cady Lalanne are sure to cancel each other out, given their ability to play inside.
Thus, it will be up to the locals to make sure their respective reinforcements get the needed support.
Adrian Nocum, Gian Mamuyac, Caelan Tiongson and Jhon Clarito will again be at the forefront of Rain or Shine’s attack, while NLEX will have Robert Bolick, Schonny Winston, JB Bahio, and Uichico’s latest magic “bunot” in rookie LJay Gonzales.
Meanwhile, the Hotshots are out to try to gain lost ground against the Giant Risers.
Clint Chapman, Zav Lucero, Mark Barroca, Paul Lee and Jerom Lastimosa will carry the fight for the Hotshots, who are tied for seventh to eighth spots with the San Miguel Beermen in the standings at 4-5.
