Undefeated Rain or Shine goes up against powerhouse San Miguel, while TNT hopes to wrap up the first half of the elimination round of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup atop Group A with Meralco.
Rain or Shine stake its perfect record when the Yeng Guiao-led squad takes on San Miguel in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup on Thursday, September 5.
The match starts at 7:30 p.m. at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, with the Elasto Painters eyeing a sweep of the first half of the elimination round.
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Rain or Shine has been nothing short of amazing so far. With a young core paired with veterans like Beau Belga and import Aaron Fuller, the Elasto Painters raced off to a scintillating 4-0 start in Group B.
“We’re doing fine, we’re doing well. It’s also a treat to see three different guys sit with me here sa post-game interview. That means iba-iba 'yung nagco-contribute sa laro,” Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao said after 116-99 win over Phoenix.
The Beermen, on the other hand, have found themselves on a two-game tailspin after back-to-back dubs to start the conference.
But under no circumstances will Rain or Shine underestimate the league juggernaut, as the Beermen swept the Elasto Painters in the semifinals in the Philippine Cup last season.
While some may think their early success so far has made them a title contender, Guiao begged to differ.
“'Yung ibang teams dito painit pa lang, 'yung ibang teams na late naghanda ng preseason so makita mo galing nila siguro towards the middle of elimination or towards the end of eliminations,” said Guiao.
“Maganda lang makita na nananlo ka pero mahirap na title contender na kami. Hindi mo pa rin masasabi yun.”
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Meanwhile, TNT and Terrafirma clash in the 5 p.m. opener at the same venue.
The Tropang Giga, 3-1, aim to wrap up the first atop Group A with Meralco (4-1).
Standing on their way are the Dyip who are desperate to clinch a first victory after dropping the first four assignments.