MANILA, Philippines – At the Ynares Center in Antipolo, Barangay Ginebra defeated Rain or Shine 98–80 to end their PBA Philippine Cup elimination round campaign on a high note. The Gin Kings’ victory paved the way for a bright playoff future by securing the No. 4 seed and the corresponding twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals.

With an 8–3 record at the completion of the eliminations, Ginebra tied three other teams in performance but secured the fourth berth thanks to a higher quotient. With the playoff picture still being decided and seeding ramifications making the game extremely important, the victory came at the ideal moment.

The Gin Kings established the tone right away with their aggressive attack and dominating defense in the first quarter. They took control of the game’s tempo and soon established a 32–21 lead. They increased their lead to 40–22 in the second period as their momentum continued. But Rain or Shine came back with a 21–5 comeback, cutting the score to 45–43 at halftime, barely two points. For a moment, the game seemed to be a contest once more.

Ginebra remained calm in the face of the Elasto Painters’ surge. They began to pull away once more in the third quarter thanks to better rebounding and timely scoring. Ginebra’s 15–0 run in the first few minutes of the fourth quarter, which destroyed Rain or Shine’s momentum and increased the margin to 89–67, was the game’s turning point. The Gin Kings were in complete control after that.

With an outstanding all-around effort, Stephen Holt spearheaded Ginebra’s attack. He made six three-pointers and finished with 27 points, 12 rebounds, and four assists. The audience was energized and Ginebra’s supremacy was solidified when two of those threes were made during the pivotal fourth-quarter run. His performance confirmed his expanding significance in the team’s core and helped boost Ginebra over the hump.

Japeth Aguilar, a seasoned big man, contributed both inside scoring and a game-changing presence on defense with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Jamie Malonzo contributed 15 points and 10 rebounds as well. RJ Abarrientos contributed hustle on both sides of the court with 11 points. Jason David scored eight points off the bench, creating important spacing and making two of four long-range baskets. Troy Rosario and Scottie Thompson provided strong defensive support and rebounds to complete the team effort.

With a combined score of 37 points, Anton Asistio, John Nocum, and Ferdinand Santillan led Rain or Shine. The Elasto Painters’ late-second-quarter surge was ignited by Asistio, but the club found it difficult to sustain an offensive rhythm in the second half. After the half, Rain or Shine was unable to recover as Ginebra’s defense became more formidable.

Ginebra secured the fourth seed with the victory, and they will now play the fifth-seeded Converge FiberXers in the quarterfinals. Because of the twice-to-beat format, the Gin Kings have the advantage of just requiring one victory to reach the semifinals. However, in order to maintain its prospects of winning the championship, Converge will need to overcome Ginebra twice.

Other significant matchups were also confirmed by the final standings: Meralco, who almost missed out on the eighth slot, will take on San Miguel, the No. 1 seed. Magnolia and TNT, the No. 3 and No. 6 seeds, respectively, complete the bracket, while NLEX, which finished second, will face Rain or Shine.

Ginebra has momentum and confidence going into the quarterfinals. They have an advantage as they get ready for the following round because of their impressive elimination finish and extensive playoff experience. Coach Tim Cone stressed the need to finish the eliminations with vigor and concentration, and his team met that goal.

Ginebra demonstrated their tactical balance of lockdown defense, inside presence, and perimeter shooting—three essential components of a successful postseason run. Holt’s performance against Rain or Shine highlighted his potential as a game-changer, and his integration into the team has been smooth. Ginebra also has an advantage in second-chance opportunities and defensive control because of Aguilar and Malonzo’s dominance on the boards.