Rain or Shine seized control of the Philippine Cup race with a gritty road victory over TNT on Saturday, Nov. 15, in Cagayan de Oro. The Elasto Painters dug deep when it mattered most, turning a sluggish start into one of their most composed finishes of the season.

The Tropang 5G dictated early rhythm behind a barrage of outside hits, punishing every defensive lapse and erecting a lead that stretched to 16 points. Rain or Shine struggled with turnovers and ball movement during long stretches, allowing TNT to dictate pace and control the flow for much of the first three quarters.

The Elasto Painters tightened up just enough entering the final period, leaning on better spacing, stronger rebounding, and sharper decision-making to stay within striking distance. As TNT’s accuracy tapered off, Rain or Shine pounced on every loose ball and second-chance look to fuel its late surge.

Rain or Shine flips the game with a fourth-quarter eruption

Down seven entering the fourth, the Elasto Painters opened the final frame with a 10-0 burst sparked by defensive pressure and improved transition execution. Their energy shift rattled TNT’s previously stable offense, forcing rushed shots and halting the passing rhythm that defined the Tropang 5G’s early dominance.

Gian Mamuyac added key buckets to help stabilize the comeback, while Gabe Norwood anchored the effort with leadership and timely playmaking. His 16-point performance, highlighted by nine rebounds and five assists, served as a nostalgic sendoff for Cagayan de Oro fans during his ongoing farewell tour.

Rain or Shine’s momentum held firm even as TNT briefly reclaimed the lead inside the final minutes. With the pressure rising, the Elasto Painters trusted their interior presence and timely cuts to generate the looks they needed to stay alive.

Clarito and Caracut seal the finish as TNT falters late

Jhonard Clarito delivered one of the defining plays of the night with a crucial putback to push Rain or Shine ahead, giving the visitors renewed control with the clock ticking down. Andrei Caracut then capped the comeback with a tough running shot that widened the gap and effectively iced the contest.

TNT still had a final opportunity after late misses at the stripe by Adrian Nocum, but the Tropang 5G couldn’t convert on the ensuing possession. Their hot shooting earlier—featuring 15 triples and two four-point shots—vanished when they needed it most, opening the door for the Elasto Painters to complete the turnaround.

The win boosted Rain or Shine to 6-2 and lifted them into solo first, dropping TNT into a crowded tie for second with San Miguel, Magnolia, NLEX, and Converge at 5-2. Caelan Tiongson returned for Rain or Shine to contribute seven points and eight boards, while Stanley Pringle made his long-awaited debut in an ROS jersey with a brief but steady outing.

With the elimination round past its midpoint, Rain or Shine’s grinding victory served as a statement of resolve and timing—proof that the Elasto Painters are learning how to finish tight games as they push deeper into the race for playoff positioning.