James Yap hits game-winner for RoS to snatch win against former team

It’s the fifth straight win of the 2019 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup for Rain or Shine (RoS) as two-time league Most Valuable Player (MVP) James Yap scored the three that snagged the victory for the Elastopainters against his former team Magnolia during the head-to-head battle at the Mall of Asia Arena last Wednesday, February 13.

James Yap resulted as the highest pointer of the game at 18 points, while Maverick Ahanmisi contributed 13 points and seven rebounds. Additionally, Norbert Torres chipped 11 points, leading to Rain or Shine’s standing of seven wins and one loss. Ian Sangalang and Mark Barroca of Magnolia each came out with 16 points, which helped them cut down their 14-point deficit during the game, but it was not enough to redeem the Hotshots from their winless run. Robbie Herndon performed as well with a double-double at 11 points and 11 rebounds, while Paul Lee was seen starting to adjust to his new team with 10 points.

RoS head coach Caloy Garcia believes that the game story is “simple” and it revolves around his newest addition to the team, James Yap. “Two big shots in the game. He just followed what he drew up, we trusted that he will be open, and he made the big shots,” he shares during the post-game interview.

Prior to the game, Garcia tells the official PBA website that they are “trying to make the best out of [being on top],” stating, “We must stick together as a team and we must continue playing hard.”

Magnolia will try to dig themselves out of their winless record on March 2 at the Cagayan de Oro City against the Meralco Bolts, while Rain or Shine will attempt to extend their winning streak on March 3 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo against the Talk N’ Text Katropa.