Rain or Shine shines, extends streak to four

Rain or Shine escaped Meralco, 85-83, to extend its winning streak to four games in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governors’ Cup on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Aaron Fuller led the Elasto Painters with 25 points and 13 rebounds as they improved to a 4-2 win-loss record in Group B and avenged their 114-122 loss to the Bolts on 18 July at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

While things didn’t go entirely according to plan, head coach Yeng Guiao said he was still satisfied with how his team got the job done.

“This is probably one of our worst games, but we found ways in the endgame to carve out a win,” Guiao said.

“In the first half, Aaron started 2-of-10, so he really struggled. Fortunately, he was able to score late. Our final two possessions could have won us the game outright, but in the end we won it through free throws.”

Tied at 83 with 39 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, Fuller sank a clutch layup to give Rain or Shine a breather.

The Bolts had two chances in the dying seconds to force overtime but were unable to capitalize on either opportunity.

First, Chris Banchero drove to the basket with 14 seconds left on the clock, but Luis Villegas blocked the shot to keep Rain or Shine’s lead intact.

With two seconds remaining, the Bolts earned two free throws after Adrian Nocum fouled Bong Quinto in the shaded area.

However, Quinto missed both free throws as the Elasto Painters escaped with the victory.

Deo Quajao had 12 points for Rain or Shine, while Jhonard Clarito and Caelan Tiongson added 11 points apiece.

Chris Newsome led the Bolts with 16 points, five rebounds, and five assists, but it wasn’t enough as Meralco dropped to a 2-4 record and extended its losing streak to three games.

Meralco last won on 21 July, when it escaped with a 116-114 victory over Blackwater.