Ginebra stings struggling Rain or Shine

Sports

THE Barangay Ginebra Kings rebounded from a shock loss in a big way as they took out the suddenly struggling Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 114-90, in the 50th PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Sunday night, May 3, at the Araneta Coliseum.

Coming off a disappointing 91-112 loss to the Meralco Bolts, the Kings vented their ire on the erstwhile league-leaders Elasto Painters and chalked up their eighth win in 11 games that bolstered their bid for a Top 4 finish.

Ginebra actually tied Rain or Shine’s record, causing a two-way logjam at second and third spots behind the NLEX Road Warriors, who have nine wins and two defeats.

At fourth spot are the Meralco Bolts, who are 7-3.

Those four teams are in the running for a crucial twice-to-beat bonus that will be given to the Top 4 squads in the playoffs.

Justin Brownlee punished Rain or Shine’s defense by exploding for 40 points while also tallying eight rebounds, five assists, two blocks, and a steal. RJ Abarrientos provided Brownlee the much-needed support by tallying 23 markers and 11 assists.

Scottie Thompson also came to work for Ginebra and wound up with 17 points and 16 rebounds.

Jaylen Johnson scored 16 points to lead Rain or Shine, which suffered a second straight loss. The Elasto Painters have lost three of their last four games, falling into a mini struggle after starting the tournament with seven consecutive wins.

THE SCORES:

GINEBRA (114) – Brownlee 40, Abarrientos 23, Thompson 17, Cu 15, Rosario 13, Holt 4, Torres 2, Pinto 0.

RAIN OR SHINE (90) – Johnson 16, Mamuyac 14, Asistio 13, Nocum 10, Santillan 8, Tiongson 8, Cuajao 8, Villegas 6, Caracut 5, Malonzo 2, Clarito 0, David 0, Manaytay 0.(CCM)