If you missed the offensive showdown between Nick Rakocevic and Lester Prosper, or Rain or Shine’s dominance over the Barangay Ginebra, here is a quick recap from Wednesday’s 2022 PBA Commissioner’s Cup doubleheader.
Taylor Jr., Elasto Painters trample sluggish Gin Kings
After a heartbreaking homecoming during the last timeout, Yeng Guiao finally got his first win this conference, as the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters crushed Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel, 93-71.
Steve Taylor Jr. led the way for the Elasto Painters with 21 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, and a steal. Former Green Archer Santi Santillan came off the bench to produce 15 points in 66% shooting, while former Blue Eagle Mike Nieto contributed 10 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists in the win.
Justin Brownlee led the Ginebra with 20 points, but he only shot a measly 28% from the field, including 10% from three-point territory. The 34-year-old resident import also grabbed 16 rebounds, and 5 assists in the loss.
Newly-acquired Jamie Malonzo had a solid debut for Ginebra after scoring 14 points on 54% shooting, to go along with 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks. On the other hand, reigning MVP Scottie Thompson had a night to forget after recording only one point on 0-of-4 shooting.
Rakocevic’s offensive prowess powers Magnolia in opener
Nick Rakocevic’s made two crucial baskets late in the game for the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots, handing Terrafirma Dyip their second straight loss of the conference, 100-92.
The 6’11” Serbian debuted with a game-high 45 points on 65% shooting, and filled out the rest of his stat sheet with 25 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 3 blocks. Jio Jalalon and Ian Sangalang are the only locals who cracked into double-digit scoring with 12 and 10, respectively.
Despite having a lowly offensive outing, Paul Lee, who scored 9 points, hit a coldblooded three-pointer at the 2:34 mark to give the Hotshots the lead, 94-92. The lead ballooned to 4 in the 1:55 mark courtesy of Mark Barroca’s floater.
The Hotshots did not give a slight opening for the Dyip to roar back, as Rakocevic scored the last 4 points for Magnolia to seal the deal.
Lester Prosper came out big once more, scoring 41 points and grabbing 15 rebounds. But once again, the lack of local support hurt the team’s chances to snatch a win.
Juami Tiongson, with his 19 markers, was the only local to score in double-digits for the winless Dyip. Tiongson also added 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals to his name.
Upcoming 2022 PBA Commissioner's Cup Games
September 30 – Smart Araneta Coliseum
- NLEX Road Warriors vs. Blackwater Bossing (3:00 PM)
- NorthPort Batang Pier vs. Meralco Bolts (5:45 PM)
