Rain or Shine Elasto Painters import Aaron Fuller against Meralco Bolts big man Brandon Bates. PBA Images.
MANILA — The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters zoomed to their fourth straight win after escaping the Meralco Bolts, 85-83, in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
This was Rain or Shine's fourth win in six outings in Group B, with Aaron Fuller leading the charge with 25 points, 13 rebounds, and two steals.
“We’re just focusing on defense,” said Fuller, as the E-Painters took the win after Bong Quinto missed crucial free throws that could have sent the game to overtime in the dying seconds.
“We just found ways to carve out the win,” added ROS head coach Yeng Guiao, as Fuller hit the go-ahead basket before Quinto’s misses. “Mabuti nag-mintis din si Quinto.”
Deo Cuajao provided spark with 12 points, four rebounds, and two assists, while Jhonard Clarito and Caelan Tiongson chipped in 11 points apiece.
On the other hand, this was Meralco's third straight loss and fourth overall in six games.
Chris Newsome led the Bolts' 11-point comeback attempt with 16 points on 4-of-5 shooting from beyond the arc, but it all went for naught as they failed to capitalize on their final opportunity to force overtime.
Antonio Hester followed with 15 points and 13 rebounds, while Cliff Hodge and Javee Mocon both scored 14.
The Scores:
Rain or Shine 85 – Fuller 25, Cuajao 12, Tiongson 11, Clarito 11,Asistio 7, Nocum 6, Manaytay 5, Villegas 5, Malonzo 2, Caracut 1.
Meralco 83 – Newsome 16, Hester 15, Mocon 14, Hodge 14, Black 7, Quinto 6, Maliksi 6, Banchero 2, Rios 2, Bates 1.
Quarterscores: 25-18, 48-47. 68-75, 85-83.