THE Rain or Shine Elasto Painters sustained their fine play as they put down the TerraFirma Dyip, 91-82, in the 2020 PBA Philippine Cup on Friday, October 16, 2020, at the AUF Sports Arena & Cultural Center in Pampanga.
The win created a four-way tie for the lead in the standings early in the season as Rain or Shine, Phoenix, TNT and Barangay Ginebra all share identical 2-0 win-loss records.
Rey Nambatac scored a team-high 19 points for Rain or Shine, none bigger than the three-pointer that doused the comeback attempt of the winless TerraFirma. The Dyip were knocking on Rain or Shine’s door as they pulled to within six, 76-82, after a layup by Cebuano big man Aldrech Ramos.
Nambatac, though, quickly sucked the wind out of the Dyip’s sails, as he sank a long three-pointer that gave the Elasto Painters an 85-76 lead with just 2:43 remaining in the ballgame.
Veteran wingman Gabe Norwood then got a steal and a layup, and added a tough turnaround jumper for good measure, the secure the victory for Rain or Shine.
Javee Mocon, Beau Belga and Norwood all had 14 markers each. Mocon, who added 10 rebounds across his name, grabbed eight boards. Norwood pulled down six rebounds, issued four assists and added three blocks.
CJ Perez had another superb outing with 26 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, five steals and two blocks but it was all for naught as the Dyip suffered its second loss in as many games. (JNP)