Deon Thompson, Rain or Shine eye repeat vs Converge for PBA Commissioner's Cup semis spot

The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters are determined to complete their comeback and secure a semifinal berth as they take on the Converge FiberXers in a decisive Game 3 of their PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals series on Sunday, Feb. 9,

The match starts at 5:00 p.m. at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

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After a 130-118 defeat in Game 1, Rain or Shine responded in Game 2 with a 114-104 win, forcing a rubber match for the third ticket to the semifinals.

A major factor in Rain or Shine’s bounce-back victory was import Deon Thompson, who played a complete game after being limited by foul trouble in Game 1. With Thompson fouling out early in the third quarter of the series opener, Rain or Shine struggled to keep up with Converge’s offensive firepower.

However, in Game 2, Thompson dominated on both ends, finishing with 28 points, 18 rebounds, seven assists, and two blocks to lead the Elasto Painters.

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Aside from their import, Rain or Shine’s local crew also stepped up in the must-win game. Adrian Nocum delivered a career-high 28 points, while Jhonard Clarito contributed 19 points, giving the Elasto Painters the much-needed local boost to extend the series.

Now, with everything at stake, Rain or Shine looks to capitalize on its momentum and outlast Converge in the final quarterfinal battle.

With Thompson in peak form and the locals stepping up, Rain or Shine looks confident in completing the series comeback and advance.

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(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)

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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]