Rain or Shine survives controversial finish to beat Magnolia
Rain or Shine is now just one win away from securing a spot in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup semifinals after a gritty 111-106 overtime victory over the Magnolia Hotshots on Sunday night at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
Aaron Fuller, who had been questionable to play due to a corneal abrasion in Game 2, powered through his injury to lead the Elasto Painters with 29 points and 11 rebounds. Fuller’s resilience was on full display, especially in overtime, where he scored nine crucial points that ultimately helped Rain or Shine edge out Magnolia in this tense Game 3.
The match was packed with drama, particularly in the final moments of overtime. With Rain or Shine holding on to a 106-104 lead, Magnolia’s Zavier Lucero had a potential game-tying layup controversially blocked by Jhonard Clarito. After reviewing the play, the referees ruled the block as a goaltending violation, giving Lucero the basket and tying the game at 106.
Despite the controversy, the Elasto Painters held their nerve. Gian Mamuyac was fouled and sank the go-ahead free throws, followed by Clarito grabbing a crucial rebound off a missed free throw to give Rain or Shine another opportunity to seal the game. Mamuyac’s calm under pressure, combined with Clarito’s all-around contributions (18 points, eight rebounds), helped Rain or Shine fend off Magnolia’s comeback bid.
Magnolia had clawed back from a 94-83 deficit with just over four minutes left in regulation, forcing overtime behind the efforts of Lucero. However, their comeback fell short as the Hotshots struggled to close out the game in the extra period.
WATCH: Magnolia vs. Rain or Shine (September 29) Game 3 Highlights
With the Elasto Painters now holding a 2-1 series lead, they’ll look to close out the Hotshots in Game 4 and punch their ticket to the semifinals. Magnolia, meanwhile, faces a must-win scenario to keep their Governors’ Cup campaign alive. The pivotal Game 4 is set for Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, where both teams will once again battle for their season’s survival.
Rain or Shine will be hoping for another standout performance from Fuller, while Magnolia will need to regroup and find answers to the Elasto Painters’ resilient defense and their ability to control the boards.
Game time is scheduled for 5:00 p.m., with everything on the line for both teams.
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