The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and the Converge FiberXers are set for a thrilling do-or-die showdown in Game 3 of their PBA Commissioner's Cup quarterfinal series. With both teams securing a win each, Sunday’s decisive match at the Ynares Center in Antipolo will determine who advances to the semifinals.
A Battle of Adjustments
Rain or Shine forced the rubber match with a crucial 114-104 victory in Game 2, bouncing back from a tough 118-130 loss in the series opener. Head coach Yeng Guiao credited the win to defensive adjustments, particularly in protecting the paint and securing rebounds—an area they struggled with in Game 1.
"We made some defensive adjustments, especially in our matchups and help defense," said Guiao. "We wanted to protect the paint more and improve our rebounding. That’s where we lost the first game, they dominated inside."
Converge’s Offensive Struggles
The FiberXers' dominant frontcourt trio—Cheick Diallo, Justin Arana, and Justine Baltazar—who combined for 70 points in Game 1, faced tougher resistance in Game 2. Their shooting efficiency dropped significantly, with Diallo and Arana finishing with 17 points each on a combined 15-of-27 shooting, while Baltazar was limited to just three field goal attempts.
This defensive pressure disrupted Converge's offensive rhythm, as they shot 39-of-88 from the field compared to their scorching 49-of-87 performance in Game 1. They also registered only 18 assists, far below their 32 in the opener, highlighting their struggle to move the ball effectively.
Key Players and Game Plan for Game 3
Converge acting coach Franco Atienza emphasized the need to rediscover their Game 1 execution—moving the ball, creating plays for teammates, and limiting turnovers.
"Game 3 is all about pride and grit," Atienza stated. "We have to execute well, share the ball, and strengthen our defense if we want to make history and reach our first semifinals."
Meanwhile, Rain or Shine’s Deon Thompson and Adrian Nocum stepped up in Game 2, with both players scoring 28 points. Thompson also dominated the boards with 18 rebounds and contributed seven assists. Nocum's late-game heroics, scoring 16 points in the fourth quarter, helped seal the win.
Atienza acknowledged that Converge needs a collective effort to counter Rain or Shine's well-rounded attack. "One or two players won’t be enough to beat them. It has to be a full team effort."
Final Showdown Awaits
With both teams eager to clinch a semifinal spot, expect a high-intensity Game 3 filled with tactical adjustments and relentless effort. Will Rain or Shine continue their defensive dominance, or will Converge rediscover their offensive rhythm? The answer unfolds on Sunday in what promises to be a thrilling finale to this hard-fought series.
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