MANILA, Philippines – With confidence and momentum, the NLEX Road Warriors are heading into the PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals with the goal of easily defeating the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in their scheduled showdown at the PhilSports Arena. The Road Warriors aim to make it back to the semifinals for the first time since 2021, armed with a two-to-beat lead and one of their most complete teams in recent years.

NLEX tied with top-seeded San Miguel Beer but lost by quotient, finishing the elimination stage as the No. 2 seed with an 8–3 win–loss record. The Road Warriors’ six-game winning streak in the second half of the eliminations helped them secure a top-two finish for just the third time in the team’s existence. Their defense held up well at that time, and their backcourt rotation’s timely scoring helped them win important games.

Their psychological advantage was further strengthened by their most recent victory over Rain or Shine during the eliminations. Xyrus Torres’ outstanding effort, which included 24 points and demonstrated the team’s shooting range and perimeter threats, was the high point of that performance. The playoffs, however, bring a different intensity, as head coach Jong Uichico observed inwardly. Under the increased strain of postseason basketball, he reminded his players that a regular-season victory does not guarantee the same outcome.

The Road Warriors are aware that Rain or Shine is a formidable opponent, but NLEX’s twice-to-beat incentive is a big plus. With a 6–5 record, the Elasto Painters finished the eliminations as the seventh seed. They have made it to the semifinals three times in the last three conferences despite their inferior seeding, which is evidence of their tenacity and tactical discipline under head coach Yeng Guiao.

The Road Warriors’ method is well known to Guiao, a former NLEX coach, who gives the series an additional strategic dimension. Rain or Shine has become a tough, physical team that performs well under pressure thanks to its tactical expertise and inspiring leadership. With their deep rotation and tough defense, the Elasto Painters will want to prolong the series and make it a do-or-die matchup.

The performance and availability of NLEX’s core players will be crucial to their success. Dominic Fajardo, Javee Mocon, and Anthony Semerad had just returned to the team from injury. Their return improves the team’s depth, particularly when it comes to second-unit scoring, rebounding, and perimeter defense. Mocon, in particular, can help balance the club during stressful moments because of his playoff experience and grit on both ends of the court.

The Road Warriors’ attacking engine still relies heavily on playmaker Robert Bolick. Wingers like Torres and Semerad have more opportunities because of their ability to generate opportunities, control pace, and attract defenders. Against Rain or Shine’s tenacious defense, which frequently causes turnovers and turns them into fast-break points, Bolick’s decision-making will be crucial.

NLEX has one of the league’s most effective offenses, according to statistics. With a true shooting percentage of 58% and a consistent 36.1% three-point shooting percentage, the squad is among the best in the league. Their methodical half-court play stands in stark contrast to Rain or Shine’s penchant for fast-paced, transition-heavy scoring.

Conversely, Rain or Shine averages more than 106 points per game going into the playoffs, making them one of the conference’s top scoring teams. They are unpredictable and challenging to defend because their offense is not centered around a single player. In different games, players like Gian Mamuyac, Andrei Caracut, and Santi Santillan have shown up, and Adrian Nocum, a remarkable rookie, has proven to be a dependable defender and scorer.

It will be crucial for NLEX to win the rebounding battle and contain Rain or Shine’s perimeter threats. If NLEX is unable to box out on a regular basis, the Elasto Painters may be able to take advantage of their great offensive rebounding and second-chance opportunities. The series’ pace may be determined by paint matchups, especially those involving Rain or Shine’s bruisers and NLEX’s forwards.

The Road Warriors understand the value of finishing early because they are only one victory away from their semifinal ambitions. The twice-to-beat advantage Rain or Shine fought so hard to acquire during the elimination round would be ruined if they were allowed to gain confidence by forcing a rubber match. If they perform well on both ends of the court, the team’s discipline, well-rounded attack, and improved health could tip the scales in their favor.

NLEX and Rain or Shine’s quarterfinal matchup promises a combination of individual skill, physicality, and tactical intrigue—a suitable setting for two resolute teams vying for a coveted semifinal berth.