In a thrilling comeback performance, Jhonard Clarito powered Rain or Shine to a 92-89 victory over NLEX in their PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals match at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig on Wednesday, June 18. The win forces a deciding game on Saturday, keeping Rain or Shine’s hopes alive for a semifinal spot.

Clarito, who finished with 20 points and a career-high 21 rebounds, was the driving force behind Rain or Shine’s fourth-quarter surge. Of his 20 points, 14 came in the final frame, and he grabbed 13 of his 21 rebounds in the same period. His effort helped Rain or Shine overcome a 69-77 deficit and take a commanding 90-85 lead with just 1:43 left in the game.

Despite a valiant effort from Robert Bolick, who scored a quick four-pointer to bring NLEX within 89-90, the Road Warriors failed to capitalize. Bolick missed a crucial drive on their next possession, which led to Clarito’s free throws that sealed the three-point difference in the last 10.5 seconds.

A Game of Runs

The game had its fair share of momentum swings. Rain or Shine dominated in the first half, building two 16-point leads in the second quarter. However, NLEX surged in the third period, outscoring Rain or Shine 36-22 to take a 69-73 lead heading into the final frame.

Coach Yeng Guiao acknowledged the back-and-forth nature of the game, saying, “Basketball is a game of runs. We had our run in the first half, they had their run in the third quarter. Mabuti na lang nakabalik ulit kami ng fourth quarter. Sheer hard work, sheer effort.”

Guiao also praised Clarito’s relentless effort, saying, “Any coach would appreciate the effort that they put up. Buwis-buhay talaga, eh.”

Standout Performances

While Clarito’s 20-20 game stole the spotlight, Adrian Nocum also contributed significantly to the win with a 20-point performance, capped off by a key follow-up shot that extended Rain or Shine’s lead to 90-85. Santi Santillan also played a vital role, finishing with 16 points and seven rebounds.

NLEX was led by Xyrus Torres, who scored 20 points, with a strong 14-point performance in the third quarter to spark his team’s comeback. Javee Mocon added a double-double, contributing 16 points and 11 rebounds. However, Robert Bolick struggled with his shooting, finishing with 15 points on a tough 5-of-20 field goal shooting.

A Decisive Game Ahead

With the win, Rain or Shine has neutralized NLEX’s win-once advantage, setting up a thrilling do-or-die game on Saturday. Coach Guiao expressed his confidence, saying, “We just stayed patient. Buwis-buhay talaga, eh. But now we want our position. One game away, even field, great battle. This is what we like, this is where you get your toughness and we showed toughness today.”

The upcoming game will determine who advances to face the winner of the other quarterfinals series between Magnolia and TNT.