Import-less Painters power down Bolts

MANILA, Philippines — No import, no problem. 

The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters bucked the odds and zapped the Meralco Bolts, 109-102, in their PBA Commissioner's Cup clash Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

Playing without import Jaylen Johnson, Rain or Shine led by as much as 17 points in the victory to remain undefeated through three contests in the import-laden conference. 

Felix Lemetti led the charge for the Elasto Painters with 23 points and three assists. Adrian Nocum chipped in 17 markers, six boards, a swat and a steal. 

Rain or Shine led by 17 points, 45-28, in the second quarter after an and-one by Nocum. 

A 21-4 run capped by an and-one by Jones pulled the Bolts to within five, 44-49, before a Gian Mamuyac deuce made it a 51-44 affair at the half. 

The two teams were then kept in a tight match, as a jumper by Chris Banchero made it a one point match, 94-95, with 5:11 remaining. 

A Luis Villegas trey then sparked a massive 11-0 run capped by a Jhonard Clarito jumper to make it a 106-94 lead. 

Meralco played catchup the rest of the way, as they inched to within six, 102-108, with about 21 seconds remaining. 

However, it was just a little too late as Rain or Shine grabbed the victory. 

Chris Newsome powered Meralco with 29 points, three rebounds, an assist and a steal, while Marvin Jones finished with 17 points and 16 rebounds in the losing effort. 

Rain or Shine rose to 3-0 in the standings, while Meralco dropped to 2-1.