MANILA, Philippines – Rain or Shine and TNT are both too eager to label themselves “UNDERDOG” as they face off in their PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinal matchup, which begins Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

In order for the Tropang Giga and Elasto Painters to enter the battle with the right attitude, get off to a strong start, and win at least the first game of the best-of-seven series, their preparations over the past few weeks have been essential.

Chot Reyes, the head coach of TNT, reminded everyone that his team had lost to the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in their previous meeting. On January 31, the Tropa’s elimination round campaign came to an end with a 10-point loss. Reyes underlined that the playoffs pose a completely different task, regardless of prior performance.

Although he admitted that some people could view TNT as favorites because of their past performances and history, he played down that argument. He emphasized how unpredictable the playoffs are, calling them a “second season” where results from the regular season are not as significant. Reyes emphasized that previous games do not ensure future success and that anything may happen in a best-of-seven series.

The coach also emphasized the need of living in the moment, saying that TNT does not consider itself a clear favorite, despite what the general public may think. He believes that the squad needs to go into the series with a new perspective, understanding that playoff basketball adds a new level of competition and intensity.

Reyes’ remarks emphasized the importance of hard work and humility, reminding his players that every playoff game is a fresh start. The emphasis is still on execution and consistency as TNT gets ready to take on the E-Painters once more, rather than on previous results.

Yeng Guiao, the head coach of Rain or Shine, shared his thoughts on the forthcoming series by pointing out that in the previous Governors’ Cup Final Four, TNT had defeated his side in just five games. He admitted that TNT is now the second seed in the series, which makes them the obvious choice for anyone observing the contest with objectivity. Guiao emphasized that given their prior performance and superior seeding, TNT would be the obvious choice from an outsider’s perspective.

But Guiao also pointed out that a number of things have changed since their last meeting. He expressed confidence in his team’s development and advancements since their last playoff run, stressing that Rain or Shine is more prepared this time. He and Chot Reyes, the coach of TNT, appear to concur that the two teams’ dynamics have changed, with new tactics and player advancements impacting the forthcoming series.

According to Guiao, the Rain or Shine camp is feeling upbeat and prepared. He acknowledges TNT’s strength and past supremacy, but he is still optimistic that his squad can fight harder now and try to undo the result of their most recent postseason encounter.

Chot Reyes, head coach of TNT, thought back on his team’s previous meetings with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, highlighting how those meetings have provided them with insightful knowledge and a better grasp of how to get ready for the forthcoming game. He thinks that having already dealt with Rain or Shine has given TNT greater insight and a more lucid viewpoint on how to develop methods that work against them.

However, Reyes noted that the Rain or Shine team they will be playing is very different from the one they faced at the previous conference. Along with highlighting several notable lineup changes, such as the addition of a new foreigner who has greatly boosted the team’s squad, he also mentioned the team’s apparent maturity increase.

Reyes cited the acquisition of Caelan Tiongson, who was not present during the Governors’ Cup, as a significant impact. He emphasized that Tiongson has significantly improved Rain or Shine’s performance and is now a key factor in their accomplishments. Reyes claims that Tiongson’s arrival has strengthened the Elasto Painters’ lineup’s depth and adaptability and made them a more dangerous foe.

Reyes underlined the significance of changing their strategy in light of these developments, realizing that previous tactics might not be sufficient against a more developed and experienced Rain or Shine squad.