MANILA, Philippines – Marcio Lassiter came through for San Miguel in the rain or shine. Images from PBA.  San Miguel Beer overcame a slow start to defeat Rain or Shine in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Araneta Coliseum, 115-110.

Despite Gian Mamuyac’s 33-point explosion for Rain or Shine, the Beermen managed to come back.

San Miguel’s import Ivan Aska led the way with 28 points, but it was Marcio Lassiter who made the largest difference, scoring 13 of his 23 points in the second half as they defeated Rain or Shine. CJ Perez and June Mar Fajardo each tallied 17 and 16 makers.

“I just gotta thank my teammates. My teammates found me tonight,” Lassiter remarked. “It just didn’t go in the first half, but after I figured out the rhythm, I continued.”

Mamuyac’s 13-point explosion helped the Elasto Painters get off to a fast start, as they quickly took a 32-21 lead.

However, San Miguel put additional pressure on Rain or Shine in the second quarter, scoring nine points in a row to drive the Elasto Painters into a 53-all tie at the break. This made the game more intriguing. 

After a close third quarter between the two teams, Aska scored six straight points to give San Miguel a 91-86 lead at the start of the fourth.

The score was level at 101 thanks to a three-pointer from Beau Belga and consecutive baskets from Mamuyac and Demetrius Treadwell. Aska’s jumper gave the Beermen a brief lead, but with 56 seconds remaining, Jonard Clarito’s free throws tied the score again.

With 43 seconds left, Aska then passed Lassiter an assist, enabling the latter to swish a tray and put the Beermen ahead, 111-108. The Elasto Painters’ demise was hinted at by that photo. 

Chris Ross and Lassiter’s free throws sealed the victory for San Miguel Beer.

“He demonstrated his value today,” Lassiter’s coach at San Miguel, Jorge Gallent, remarked. “That’s the Marcio Lassiter we all know. I’m very happy with his game and I hope he keeps it up.”

Scores at the end of the match:

SAN MIGUEL with 115 points

Individual scores: Aska 28, Lassiter 23, Perez 17, Fajardo 16, Cruz 10, Enciso 6, Ross 6, Bulaandi 5, Brondial 4, Tautuaa 0

RAIN OR SHINE with 110 points

Individual scores: Mamuyac 33, Nambatac 16, Clarito 14, Nocum 12, Caracut 9, Treadwell 8, Borboran 7, Demusis 5, Belga 3, Belo 2, Santillan 1

Scores per quarter:

21-32, 53-53, 85-86, 115-110