Clarito’s herculean effort forces do-or-die for Rain or Shine against NLEX

Jhonard Clarito delivered a performance for the ages, tallying a career-high 20 points and an astounding 21 rebounds, to power the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters to a thrilling 92-89 victory over the NLEX Road Warriors in Game 1 of their PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup Quarterfinals matchup at the PhilSports Arena. The win forces a do-or-die Game 2, keeping Rain or Shine’s playoff hopes alive.

The Elasto Painters, facing a twice-to-beat disadvantage against the second-seeded Road Warriors, showed immense grit and determination. They held a comfortable 16-point lead in the first half, only to see NLEX, fueled by a scorching third-quarter outburst from Xyrus Torres (who scored 14 of his team-high 20 in that frame), erase the deficit and even take a 73-69 lead heading into the final period.

But it was in the crucial fourth quarter that Clarito truly shone. The 6-foot-2 forward, who was named the 2024 Most Improved Player, single-handedly willed Rain or Shine back into contention, pouring in 14 points and grabbing 13 of his 21 rebounds in the final twelve minutes alone. His relentless effort on both ends of the floor, particularly his six offensive rebounds in the fourth, proved to be the difference-maker.

“We were just patient,” said Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao after the game. “We had our run in the first half, they had their run in the third, but it’s sheer hard work. Si Jhonard, buwis buhay talaga. Any coach will appreciate that effort.”

20 points, 20 rebounds! Jhonard Clarito is the ArenaPlus BPG.#PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/ueWBLbHFOB

— PBA (@pbaconnect) June 18, 2025

Clarito echoed his coach’s sentiments, emphasizing the team’s defensive commitment. “For me, dinaan lang namin sa sipag, sa box out, at sa rebound,” he stated. “Sabi ni Coach Yeng, walang matatalo sa depensa, so kailangan, buwis-buhay talaga.”

Aside from Clarito’s monumental game, Adrian Nocum also contributed significantly with 20 points, five rebounds, two steals, and two assists. Santi Santillan added 16 points and seven boards, while Andrei Caracut chipped in 10 points.

For NLEX, Robert Bolick tried to rally his team late, even hitting a crucial four-pointer to cut the lead to one at 89-90 with 1:38 remaining. However, Rain or Shine’s defense held firm in the dying seconds, securing the vital victory.

The series now heads to a winner-take-all Game 2 on Saturday, June 21, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila. The winner will advance to the semifinals of the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup, promising another intense showdown between these two determined squads.

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