Yap, Painters squeak past Hotshots

MANILA, Philippines – The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters extended their win streak to five games after escaping the Magnolia Hotshots, 75-74, in the 2019 PBA Philippine Cup at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday.

James Yap converted on a crucial and-one opportunity with seconds left in the game to seal the deal for the Elasto Painters.

The Elasto Painters waxed hot from deep in the opening canto and built a double-digit lead early in the match.

Rain or Shine also did its job on the defensive end, holding Magnolia's Paul Lee without a field goal in three quarters.

Lee eventually caught his groove in the fourth Canto, converting on an up-and-under move that put the Hotshots in front, 74-72, with six seconds remaining.

But the glory was short-lived as Yap made his own up-and-under shot after absorbing contact from the Magnolia defense.

With nerves of steel, Yap sank the bonus free throw that eventually gave them the victory.

RoS improved to a league-best 7-1 record while the Magnolia Hotshots have yet to notch a win this conference and fell to 0-3.