Either the NLEX Road Warriors return to the semifinals for the first time since 2021, or the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters make it four straight semis trips as both teams collide in the PBA Philippine Cup playoffs.
The no. 2 seed NLEX Road Warriors take on the no. 7 Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup quarterfinals, with NLEX holding a twice-to-beat advantage and eyeing a return to the semifinals for the first time since 2021.
This is unfamiliar but welcome ground for NLEX—just the third time in franchise history they’ve earned a top-2 seed, the last of which during the aforementioned finish in the 2021 Governors’ Cup.
Ironically, the architect of that run was Yeng Guiao, who now calls the shots for Rain or Shine, setting up a compelling coaching storyline.
The Road Warriors surged to an 8-3 finish, punctuated by a franchise-best six-game winning streak that began with a win over Rain or Shine in the eliminations.
They’re now aiming to break through to the semifinals again with a mix of veteran savvy and efficient team play.
Rain or Shine, meanwhile, enters at 6-5 but with confidence, having reached the semifinals in the past three consecutive conferences.
The Elasto Painters will need to overcome the odds and their former coach’s old squad to keep that streak alive.
NLEX-Rain or Shine quarterfinals schedule:
June 18 (Wednesday) – PhilSports Arena
- 5:00 p.m. – NLEX Road Warriors vs. Rain or Shine Elasto Painters
June 21 (Saturday) – Ninoy Aquino Stadium (if necessary)
- 7:30 p.m. – Rain or Shine Elasto Painters vs. NLEX Road Warriors
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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.]