The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters face their biggest challenge yet in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup, taking on the 6-0 Magnolia Hotshots.
Rain or Shine returns to action after a lengthy break as it tries to derail the red-hot Magnolia Hotshots in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup on Sunday, May 18.
The main game starts at 7:30 p.m. at the Ynares Center in Montalban. The game will be available on One Sports' Youtube channel, powered by Pilipinas Live.
With an 11-day layoff since their last game, the Elasto Painters (3-2) are eager to shake off the rust and pull off a statement win against the unbeaten Hotshots (6-0).
In their most recent outing on May 7, Rain or Shine rolled past Blackwater, 120-106, behind a dominant showing from Keith Datu, who tallied 27 points on an efficient 11-of-17 shooting, along with eight rebounds, three assists, and two blocks.
[RELATED STORY: Adrian Nocum comes alive in 2nd half as Rain or Shine overturns Blackwater in PBA PH Cup]
Adrian Nocum also delivered a strong performance, chipping in 23 points, as the Elasto Painters showcased the firepower they’ll need to match Magnolia’s pace.
A win is crucial for Rain or Shine to stay in contention for a top-four finish and the twice-to-beat edge in the quarterfinals. But to do that, they’ll have to withstand a Magnolia squad coming off a 117-92 thrashing of Meralco, where Paul Lee exploded for 27 points, including 16 in the fourth.
Fresh legs versus fiery momentum—it’s a high-stakes clash that will test Rain or Shine’s poise and playoff aspirations.
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(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]