BATANGAS CITY, Philippines – Rain or Shine finally got over the hump against Columbian after pulling off an 88-86 overtime win in the 2019 PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Batangas City Coliseum on Sunday, June 23.

Winless to the Dyip for 4 straight games since the Philippine Cup last year, the Elasto Painters ended the curse behind import Denzel Bowles’ all-around effort and some clutch shooting by Rey Nambatac. 

Bowles collected a triple-double of 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists, but struggled to put Rain or Shine up front after shooting a paltry 7-of-21 from the free throw line.

Fortunately, the Elasto Painters managed to knot the score at 86-all with less than 40 seconds remaining before Nambatac converted the go-ahead layup with two ticks left. 

Columbian, which forced an overtime off a Rashawn McCarthy triple late in regulation, could not force another extra period as Glenn Khobuntin committed a costly inbound turnover as time expired. 

Nambatac finished with 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 steals, Jewel Ponferada had another 10 points, while Ed Daquioag chipped in 9 points for Rain or Shine, which improved to 3-3. 

Import Lester Prosper had another stellar outing of 26 points, 15 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 steals, but the Dyip just could not reassert their mastery over the Elasto Painters as they dropped to 1-6.

McCarthy chipped in 15 points and 7 rebounds, CJ Perez added 12 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals, while Jackson Corpuz contributed 11 points in the losing effort. 

The Scores

Rain or Shine 88 – Bowles 29, Ponferada 10, Nambatac 10, Daquioag 9, Mocon 8, Norwood 8, Belga 5, Rosales 4, Yap 3, Torres 2, Borboran 0.

Columbian 86 – Prosper 26, McCarthy 15, Perez 12, Corpuz 11, Khobuntin 8, Camson 5, King 4, Cahilig 2, Calvo 2, Celda 1, Agovida 0, Reyes 0, Escoto 0, Faundo 0.

Quarters: 22-27, 44-39, 62-62, 81-81, 88-86.

– Rappler.com