PBA October 31 Preview: Magnolia, Phoenix clash on Halloween

The PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup continues to heat up on Friday, October 31, 2025, with a compelling doubleheader at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Two pivotal games highlight the evening as teams jockey for position in the crucial elimination round.

5:15 PM — Terrafirma Dyip (1–3) vs Rain or Shine Elasto Painters (3–1)

Battle for Momentum

The opener features a matchup between the gritty Terrafirma Dyip and the surging Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, two squads looking to build consistency as the conference progresses.

Terrafirma, still seeking traction this season, hopes to rediscover its early spark after a string of tough losses. The Dyip will need standout performances from Geo Chiu, a strong Rookie of the Year candidate, and veteran scorer Juami Tiongson to keep pace with Rain or Shine’s depth and experience.

Expect Terrafirma to emphasize ball movement and turnover control to prevent Rain or Shine from thriving in transition.

On the other side, coach Yeng Guiao’s Elasto Painters have been one of the early surprises of the Philippine Cup. Their balanced blend of youth and experience — led by Gian Mamuyac, Andrei Caracut, Adrian Nocum, Beau Belga, and Gabe Norwood — has propelled them to a strong 3–1 record. Their signature pressure defense and inside-out scoring will once again be their primary weapons.

The battle inside the paint could decide this one. If Rain or Shine’s frontline dominates the glass and converts second-chance opportunities, they’ll be well on their way to a fourth victory.

7:30 PM — Phoenix Fuel Masters (1–3) vs Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots (3–1)

Clash of Contenders

The nightcap showcases contrasting narratives: the Phoenix Fuel Masters trying to revive their campaign versus the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots, who are looking to stay among the early frontrunners.

Phoenix, reeling from a tough start at 1–3, need a spark to stay in the playoff hunt. Coach Willy Wilson will rely on his backcourt and wings to ignite their offense and push the tempo. The Fuel Masters must limit their offensive droughts and make the most of transition chances to overcome Magnolia’s suffocating half-court defense.

Meanwhile, Magnolia continues to assert its dominance behind its trademark defensive discipline and deep rotation. Veterans Paul Lee, Mark Barroca, and Ian Sangalang anchor a team built on experience and composure, while playing coach LA Tenorio brings leadership and stability on both ends.

The key matchup to watch will be in the backcourt: Phoenix’s guards versus Magnolia’s veteran tandem of Lee and Barroca. If Phoenix can get its shooters going early, they might challenge Magnolia’s rhythm — but the Hotshots’ structure and depth make them favorites to close strong.

Key Storylines

• Momentum vs Stability: Rain or Shine and Magnolia are solidifying their spots among the top teams, while Terrafirma and Phoenix are fighting to stay alive.

• Coaching Duel: Two veteran tacticians — Yeng Guiao and Chito Victolero — continue to outmaneuver their competition with tactical discipline.

• Standings Implications: As the elimination round nears its midpoint, every win now carries major implications for playoff positioning.

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