Elasto Painters rediscover their groove, secure provisional No. 2 seed

Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters rediscovered their offensive rhythm and firepower just in time for the playoffs, cruising to a high-scoring 142-131 victory over Titan Ultra on Friday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

After surrendering 42 points in the second quarter, the Elasto Painters responded with a massive 48-point explosion in the third period, blowing the game open and taking a commanding 116-90 lead into the final frame.

The win improved Rain or Shine to a 9-3 record, clinching the provisional No. 2 spot and strengthening their bid for a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals.

Head coach Yeng Guiao was pleased with the team’s execution, emphasizing their pace, unselfishness, and ball movement.

“We focused on getting to nine wins and building momentum heading into the playoffs,” Guiao said. “Tonight, we played the kind of basketball we’ve been working on — fast, unselfish, and in transition.”

Import Jaylen Johnson led the balanced attack with 31 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists. Rookie Christian Manaytay came off the bench to deliver one of his best games of the conference with 18 points and 8 rebounds, earning Player of the Game honors.

Caelan Tiongson contributed 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Santi Santillan posted a double-double of 14 points and 12 rebounds. Adrian Nocum added 14 points as all 13 Rain or Shine players scored at least three points. The Elasto Painters also tallied 42 assists and 43 fastbreak points.

For Titan Ultra, Bryan Sajonia led the way with 23 points, while Joshua Munzon added 21. The team closed its conference campaign on a seven-game losing streak, finishing with a 4-8 record.