Looking new in many aspects, Rain or Shine opened its campaign in the KFC PBA Philippine Cup far different from its four previous tournaments in the pro league.
The Elasto Painters, getting tremendous boost from their new recruits, pummeled the Air21 Express, 120-102, in a rousing debut in the 34th PBA season at the Astrodome last night.
“This is practically a new team. The character, heart and fighting spirit of this team is very different from our previous rosters,” said Rain or Shine coach Caloy Garcia.
“This team is determined to improve our ways. One game doesn’t mean anything but the boys are looking to get the team from being always cellar-dweller. We don’t want to end at 10th again,” Garcia added.
Fifth draft pick Solomon Mercado and Eddie Laure, both trade acquisitions by Rain or Shine from Alaska, pumped in five triples each and combined for a total of 49 points in leading the Elasto Painters past an Air21 team which came out flat ironically after a runner-up finish in the recent Fiesta Conference.
Apparently because of a short preparation, the Express appeared always a step behind the Elasto Painters.
And probably because of frustration, three key Air21 players in Homer Se, Wynne Arboleda and Arwind Santos were called a flagrant foul penalty 2 each, causing early ouster from the lopsided contest.
Holdovers Ryan Arana, JayR Reyes and Rob Wainwright also finished in double figures for the Elasto Painters, who ended up with the biggest output for the franchise in a non-overtime game. The team’s previous record was a 116-108 win over Talk n Text during the 2008 Fiesta Conference elimination round.
Curiously, a league newcomer in Solomon shone brightest in the contest with the Fil-Puerto Rican guard going 5-of-10 from beyond the arc, 3-of-3 from the two-point zone and 8-of-10 from the stripe to lead all scorers with 29.
It was the most points by any rookie in a debut in the PBA since Asi Taulava powered his way to 32 points and 20 rebounds as Talk n Text routed a returning Tanduay ball club, 90-64, in the 1999 season-opening game.
“It’s great to be already playing here in the PBA. I’m taking advantage of the opportunity,” said Mercado.
“As I’ve been saying, Sol is like a young Mark Caguioa. Hopefully, he doesn’t get complacent,” said Garcia.
Top draft pick Gabe Norwood started at pointguard spot for Rain or Shine, tallying six points, three assists, two rebounds and one steal in 25 minutes of action.
TY Tang, the third Rain or Shine rookie, contributed seven points and six rebounds while alternating with Norwood at point guard spot.
Alaska Milk waged a big rally in the third period and beat out San Miguel in a nip-and-tuck battle at endgame, pulling off an 85-84 decision in the nightcap.