PBA: Andrei Caracut laments RR Pogoy’s continued dominance over Rain or Shine in semis Game 1 loss

Rain or Shine Elasto Painters guard Andrei Caracut couldn’t hide his frustration following their 100-92 Game 1 loss to the TNT Tropang Giga in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals. At the heart of his dismay was the familiar sight of Roger Pogoy dissecting their defense, a recurring problem that has plagued the Elasto Painters in previous encounters.

Pogoy, known for his sharpshooting and relentless attacking, proved to be a significant thorn in Rain or Shine’s side once again, leading TNT with a game-high 27 points, including crucial baskets that blunted every Elasto Painter rally.

“He’s really a problem for us,” Caracut admitted after the game, shaking his head. “We tried to contain him, but he just finds ways to score. His off-ball movement, his quick release – it’s really tough to guard.”

The feeling of déjà vu was palpable for Caracut and his teammates. Pogoy has a history of delivering clutch performances against Rain or Shine, often at critical junctures of big games. This Game 1 performance was no different, as he consistently knocked down contested jumpers and drove to the basket with impunity, exploiting defensive lapses and creating opportunities for his teammates.

Rain or Shine’s defensive scheme, which focused on limiting TNT’s other prolific scorers, seemed to open up lanes for Pogoy. While they managed to somewhat contain Jayson Castro and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Pogoy stepped up admirably, showcasing his expanded offensive repertoire.

On the night RR Pogoy was recognized for reaching 5000 points in the PBA, he just proved to be TNT’s main weapon as he finished with 28 points to tow the Tropang 5G past Rain or Shine in their semis opener.

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“We prepared for him, we knew what he could do,” Caracut continued, “but it’s different when you’re actually out there. He’s just so quick and he doesn’t need much space to get his shot off.”

The loss puts Rain or Shine in a familiar hole against a formidable TNT squad. While the series is far from over, Caracut stressed the importance of making adjustments, particularly in finding a way to neutralize Pogoy’s impact.

“We have to go back to the drawing board,” he said. “We need to find a way to make it harder for him. If we don’t, it’s going to be a long series for us.”

As Game 2 looms, the focus for Coach Yeng Guiao and his coaching staff will undoubtedly be on devising a more effective strategy to shackle Roger Pogoy. Until then, as Andrei Caracut aptly put it, Pogoy remains a persistent and painful “thorn” in the side of the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.

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