FULL GAME REPLAY
NorthPort is looking to extend its strong start in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup when it takes on Rain or Shine at the Smart Araneta Coliseum this Wednesday. The Batang Pier hope to build momentum after a convincing victory over Terrafirma, while the Elasto Painters aim to bounce back from a tough loss to NLEX.
A Promising Start for NorthPort
Despite the loss of center JM Calma before the start of the conference, NorthPort showed no signs of struggle in its opener. The team dominated Terrafirma, 97-75, showcasing a balanced attack and a confident presence on both ends of the floor.
Arvin Tolentino emerged as the clear leader for NorthPort, nearly putting up a triple-double performance with 19 points, eight rebounds, and 12 assists. His all-around impact solidified his status as one of the league’s top stars and the primary threat in NorthPort’s offense.
Rain or Shine’s Frontline Woes
In stark contrast, Rain or Shine struggled mightily in its debut game, falling to NLEX 95-109. Coach Yeng Guiao admitted that his team is facing serious issues, especially in the frontcourt. With Beau Belga still sidelined by vertigo, Luis Villegas recovering from knee surgery, and Keith Datu nursing a right calf injury, the Elasto Painters were left without true big men to battle in the paint.
“We have a real problem with our bigs,” Guiao said. “But let’s see, maybe we can find a way to adjust.”
With only forwards Santi Santillan and Caelan Tiongson left to hold down the middle, Rain or Shine faces a significant mismatch in size and physicality against NorthPort’s taller and longer roster.
Defensive Struggles Exposed
Rain or Shine’s problems extended beyond the lack of size. Coach Guiao was candid in assessing his team’s poor defensive effort against NLEX. The Road Warriors shot an eye-popping 61% from beyond the arc and 55% overall, a statistic that underscored Rain or Shine’s failure to rotate properly and challenge shooters.
“I think that’s where we fell short. The numbers show we weren’t putting enough effort on defense,” Guiao admitted. “That’s something we’re focusing on in practice.”
Heading into the matchup against NorthPort, the Elasto Painters must address their defensive discipline and find ways to protect the rim despite their lack of height.
Containing Arvin Tolentino: A Key to Victory
Stopping Arvin Tolentino will be a top priority for Rain or Shine. The former Best Player of the Conference has continued to shine and now serves as the engine that drives NorthPort’s offense.
“Teams are already preparing for Arvin,” Guiao said. “It’s just a matter of finding a defensive scheme that works.”
With limited options in the frontcourt and lingering injury concerns, devising that scheme won’t be easy. Still, Guiao remains hopeful that effort and strategy can close the gap.
The Stakes: Momentum vs. Redemption
Wednesday’s clash represents two different storylines. For NorthPort, it’s a chance to build early momentum in the Philippine Cup and solidify its playoff hopes. For Rain or Shine, it’s about redemption—proving that it can adjust, overcome adversity, and compete despite being shorthanded.
The pressure is especially heavy on the Elasto Painters, who not only face a well-oiled NorthPort squad but must do so while plugging major holes in their lineup.