MANILA, Philippines – Rain or Shine defeated a depleted NorthPort team 113-96 on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in the PBA Philippine Cup. Gian Mamuyac’s spectacular first quarter helped the Elasto Painters win a much-needed comeback, improving their record.

With 22 points, including 13 in the first period, Mamuyac led Rain or Shine. Halfway through the first period, the Elasto Painters had a solid 24–6 advantage thanks in part to his early scoring burst. As NorthPort made several comeback attempts during the game, the early lead proved to be significant.

Leonard Santillan, who finished with 17 points and 10 rebounds, offered strong assistance. Despite multiple physical altercations, he remained composed and kept his squad concentrated on winning. After NorthPort had reduced the lead to seven points, Rain or Shine completely pulled away thanks to 15 points by Andrei Caracut, including 12 in the last quarter.

Leading scorer Arvin Tolentino was out for NorthPort because of a right hip flexor ailment. The previous weekend, Tolentino had led them to victory over Terrafirma with 19 points and 12 assists. There was a big gap in the Batang Pier’s offense because of his absence.

Important frontcourt players were also absent for Rain or Shine. Keith Datu (calf strain) and Beau Belga (vertigo) were not available. The rebounding fight was dominated by the Elasto Painters in spite of this. With a score of 66–54, including 27–15 on the offensive glass, they outperformed NorthPort on the boards.

Yeng Guiao, the head coach, attributed the victory to offensive rebounding. Rain or Shine only converted 7 of 48 long-range tries, demonstrating weak long-range shooting. Nevertheless, the team’s 27 second-chance points made up for their shooting difficulties.

Guiao admitted that the squad was undersized going into the game. On the glass, though, he highlighted their hustle and effort. He claimed that the players’ unrelenting efforts to grab rebounds were what determined the result.

William Navarro, a forward for NorthPort, put on another impressive display. With 22 points and 12 rebounds, he recorded his second consecutive double-double. Despite receiving his fourth foul in the third quarter, he was still able to continue playing. Navarro continued to be combative and offered the Batang Pier an opportunity.

Jio Jalalon, who was back from injury, finished with 11 points and six assists, while Joshua Munzon scored 14 points and seven assists for NorthPort. In Tolentino’s absence, the three attempted to shoulder the burden, but their attempts were unsuccessful against Rain or Shine’s well-rounded onslaught.

NorthPort fought back despite trailing behind early. By halftime, they had reduced a 51–33 deficit to 56–48. They passed 73-80 in the third quarter. Nevertheless, Santillan and Mamuyac reacted swiftly, regaining an 11-point advantage going into the last frame.

Rain or Shine had complete control back in the fourth quarter. The lead was increased to 104–85 as Caracut and Santillan connected on multiple crucial plays. Their powerful finish ensured victory and made it difficult for NorthPort to rally.

For the Batang Pier, Caelan Tiongson scored 15 points and pulled down eight rebounds. The physical altercation between Sydney Onwubere and Tiongson did not deter the Elasto Painters from carrying out their strategy. With nine points and ten rebounds, Gabe Norwood came close to recording a double-double and showed leadership on both sides of the court.

After the victory, Rain or Shine’s record improved to 2–3. The team showed resilience following a disappointing 109–95 loss to NLEX last Saturday. The victory offered signs of improvement and stability as they continue to chase playoff positioning.

NorthPort, now playing without one of its key weapons, will need to regroup quickly. The absence of Tolentino was felt across the floor, but the Batang Pier still managed to challenge Rain or Shine for most of the contest.

Scores at the end of the match

RAIN OR SHINE with 113 points for the win

Individual scores: Mamuyac 22, Santillan 17, Caracut 15, Tiongson 15, Nocum 10, Norwood 9, Asistio 9, Malonzo 7, Clarito 5, Borboran 4, Escandor 0, Lemetti 0.

NORTHPORT with 96 points

Individual scores: Navarro 22, Munzon 14, Jalalon 11, Nelle 11, Onwubere 10, Flores 8, Bulanadi 6, Yu 5, Taha 5, Miranda 4, Tratter 0, Cuntapay 0.

Scores per Quarter

31-17, 56-48, 86-75, 113-96