ANTIPOLO, Philippines – Denzel Bowles took matters in his own hands in the payoff period as Rain or Shine toppled Phoenix, 89-82, in the 2019 PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Ynares Center here on Sunday, June 9.

The former Best Import scattered 16 of his 28 points in the final frame as the Elasto Painters completed the come-from-behind triumph to make it two wins in a row and improve to 2-2.

Rain or Shine trailed by a point with 3 minutes left before Bowles converted an and-one and assisted on a Rey Nambatac three-pointer to build an 85-80 lead. 

Nambatac then knocked down two free throws, while Bowles – who also finished with 14 rebounds and 5 assists – secured the victory with a jumper at the 50-second mark. 

James Yap delivered 15 points for the Elasto Painters but did not play the entire 4th quarter due to a groin injury, while rookie Javee Mocon chipped in 15 points, 10 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 blocks.

Nambatac added 11 points and Gabe Norwood put up 9 points and 5 rebounds in the win. 

Richard Howell bounced back from his quiet performance in the previous game with 27 points and 11 rebounds, but the Fuel Masters failed to protect their early lead as they slumped to their third straight loss for a 1-3 card.

Matthew Wright had 15 points and 5 rebounds, while LA Revilla added 12 points and 2 steals for a Phoenix squad still without suspended head coach Louie Alas and Calvin Abueva. 

The Scores

Rain or Shine 89 – Bowles 28, Yap 15, Mocon 15, Nambatac 11, Norwood 9, Daquioag 4, Alejandro 3, Rosales 2, Borboran 2, Ponferada 0, Belga 0.

Phoenix 82 – Howell 27, Wright 15, Revilla 12, Jazul 7, Chua 7, Marcelo 7, Intal 4, Perkins 3, Kramer 0, Wilson 0, Dennison 0.

Quarters: 14-20, 32-39, 61-61, 89-82

– Rappler.com