Anton Asistio ignited a decisive late run as Rain or Shine surged past Phoenix, 91-80, Wednesday, November 5, night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium to grab the solo lead in the PBA Philippine Cup.

Asistio delivered eight points in a crucial 15-2 fourth-quarter blitz, drilling two clutch triples to break the game open and push the Elasto Painters to an 82-73 advantage. The victory marked ROS’ fourth straight win as the squad improved to 5-1, moving ahead of TNT and Magnolia in the standings.

Gian Mamuyac powered Rain or Shine with 22 points, while Asistio finished with 20 on a 6-of-8 clip from deep. Jhonard Clarito added 11 and Adrian Nocum chipped in 10 to complete the balanced effort.

ROS withstands rebounding gap, injury blow

Despite being out-rebounded 50-69 and losing Keith Datu to a knee injury scare in the third quarter, Rain or Shine found answers when it mattered most. Datu tallied nine before exiting, as ROS continued to adjust to its limited frontline depth with Caelan Tiongson still sidelined.

Coach Yeng Guiao credited the team’s defense and timely shooting down the stretch, emphasizing the resilience shown amid personnel challenges. Asistio, who recently sealed their win over Titan with clutch free throws, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him during pressure moments.

Phoenix drops fourth straight

Jason Perkins paced Phoenix with 17 points, but the Fuel Masters fell to 1-5 after absorbing their fourth straight defeat. Phoenix briefly threatened early in the fourth, only to see Rain or Shine respond with poise and perimeter firepower.

Rain or Shine now sits alone atop the standings, continuing its strong early campaign behind confidence, composure, and clutch execution.