Keith Datu chose the perfect time to break out, delivering a 13-point, 10-rebound performance to help Rain or Shine dismantle TNT, 107-86, in Game 3 of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals on Sunday, June 29. The win breathed life into the Elasto Painters, who had dropped the first two games of the best-of-seven series.

Datu had barely made an impact in the first two games, averaging just a single point and a couple of boards in limited minutes. But on Sunday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the 6-foot-7 forward played with renewed confidence and aggression.

Guiao’s Challenge Ignites Datu’s Spark

Coach Yeng Guiao revealed they challenged Datu the night before, urging him to step up and embrace the moment. The message hit home, as the sophomore responded with his longest stint of the series, logging 25 minutes while adding two assists and a block to his stat line.

His presence inside the paint also helped neutralize TNT’s frontcourt, which had dominated the first two games. Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser and Poy Erram were held to a combined six points and seven rebounds, giving Rain or Shine a much-needed edge in the post.

Guiao noted Datu may have only needed a little motivation to unlock his potential. With the series now at 2-1, Rain or Shine has momentum heading into a pivotal Game 4.