Rain or Shine delayed Magnolia’s entry into the PBA Philippine Cup playoffs with a statement win, pulling off a 119-105 upset at the Ynares Center Montalban on Sunday, May 18.

The Elasto Painters ended the Hotshots’ six-game winning streak and improved to 4-2, forging a tie for fourth with Barangay Ginebra. Rejuvenated by a long break, Rain or Shine came out with relentless energy and shooting precision before a crowd of over 8,000.

All 12 Rain or Shine players deployed by coach Yeng Guiao made at least one three-pointer, a remarkable display of shooting depth. Jhonard Clarito, Keith Datu, and Beau Belga each hit two triples to lead the barrage.

Adrian Nocum led Rain or Shine in scoring with 20 points, while Leonard Santillan recorded a double-double of 17 points and 13 rebounds. The return of veterans Belga and Caelan Tiongson also strengthened the team’s rotation as Guiao shuffled his lineup throughout the game.

The Elasto Painters started strong with a 37-21 opening quarter lead, getting scoring from eight different players including Felix Lemetti and Belga who had seven apiece in the first 12 minutes.

Magnolia responded with a strong second quarter, outscoring Rain or Shine 31-25 behind Mark Barroca’s 10-point burst. But the E-Painters regained full control in the third quarter with a 30-19 run, punctuated by six three-pointers.

The win marked Rain or Shine’s fourth of the tournament following victories over NorthPort, Meralco, and Blackwater. Their only losses were to NLEX and Converge.

Rain or Shine now faces a challenging final stretch with games against TNT, Phoenix Super LPG, Terrafirma, San Miguel Beer, and Ginebra. Guiao expressed optimism that a top-four finish and a twice-to-beat edge in the playoffs remain within reach.

Despite the loss, Magnolia remained atop the standings at 6-1. Zav Lucero led them with 17 points, followed by Ian Sangalang and Mark Barroca who added 15 each.