Rain or Shine defeats Alaska Aces, takes commanding 3-0 series lead

The Alaska Aces are now in deep trouble after  losing Game 3 of the PBA Commissioner's Cup Finals Wednesday night.

Rain or Shine now takes a commanding 3-0 series lead after winning the match 112-108 and are now just one win away from sweeping the Alaska Aces.

 

The Elasto Painters built a large enough lead in the first three quarters to withstand a 36-17 last ditch effort by the Aces in the final frame.

"Buti na lang malaki lamang namin. We really didn't finish this game well," Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao told reporters in a post-game briefing.

He however, emphasized that being up 3-0 does not mean they should keep their guard down as he made an example of the San Miguel Beermen in last conference's Philippine Cup where they managed to crawl out of the hole and beat the Aces for the title.

"We have one foot ahead. San Miguel was down 0-3 but still won the championship. That's what gonna be on our minds. Consistent defense and keeping the game fast is going to be the key next Friday."

JR Quiñahan came off the bench to lead Rain or Shine with 18 points, while Jericho Cruz chipped in 17. Paul Lee rounded up the second unit in double figures with 10 markers, while Gabe Norwood, Chris Tiu, and Beau Belga combined for 25 more.

After finishing the opening period tied at 28-all, Rain or Shine outperformed their opponents by hitting 67 points while allowing just 44.

Heading into the fourth, the Elasto Painters had a commanding 95-72 advantage. The Aces were able to cut the deficit to as low as five points with 15 seconds left in the game, but clutch charities from Norwood put the game away.

Rob Dozier paced Alaska with 23 markers, while Calvin Abueva pouted in 20 points with eight boards and six assists. Chris Banchero and RJ Jazul also had 15 and 14 points, respectively. — Renee Fopalan/APG, GMA News