Image from basketball.exchange.ph
The Llamados let the Elastopainters into the ballgame but recovered just in time. Rain or Shine had a chance to win it outright but Sol Mercado's 3 was way off line with the scored tied 90 all after 4 quarters.In the extension period, their defense and experience took over to finally repulsed the Rain or Shine.
Tony Washam, who just came after Game 3 of the quarterfinal series, led the Llamados with 49 points. Raffy Reavis, KG Canaleta & James Yap provided crucial scoring support. James Yap, with bruised left eye & not-so-spectacular scoring night, proved steady on the free throw line, knocking in six free throws in the overtime period.
Rain or Shine meanwhile became too predictable in the endgame. Almost exclusively going to Sol Mercado on isolation plays. That made thing easier for the Llamados defense.
Gabe Norwood tried to lead the Elastopainters in OT, his last two points coming from the free throw line kept his team within a basket, 100 - 102 with 17.2 seconds to go.
BMEG was able to waste important seconds in the inbound play before James Yap was fouled. J. Yap connected both free throws to basically to put the game beyond Rain or Shine's reach.
BMEG will face the San Miguel Beeermen in the semifinals. BMEG is just another name for the Purefoods franchise. That semifinal tussle will be another one between two storied and pioneering PBA rivals.
Fan note: I'm really glad to catch this exciting game after watching lopsided UAAP first round baskeball match between DLSU & UE.
Glad to see former UE warrior, Marcy Arellano being called to play in this PBA game, even getting a steal.
