Rain or Shine Elastopainters’ Jhonard Clarito during a PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals game against NLEX Road Warriors. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines–It’s one thing to say you’ll leave it all on the court, and another to actually do it.
On Wednesday at Philsports Arena, Jhonard Clarito did just that to keep Rain or Shine alive in the PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals.
READ: PBA: Rain or Shine lives another day, fights off NLEX
The Elasto Painters defeated NLEX, 92-89, to force a do-or-die game for a semifinals berth—thanks largely to Clarito’s relentless hustle.
It’s no surprise, though, that Clarito found his motivation in one of coach Yeng Guiao’s fiery sermons.
“Coach told us during the huddle that our three-pointers were so bad,” said an exhausted Clarito.
Rain or Shine’s Jhonard Clarito and coach Yeng Guiao after the win vs. NLEX. | @MeloFuertesINQ pic.twitter.com/zRemjqm48s
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“We just let our hustle do the work—with our box outs, rebounds, and helping each other. Like coach said, nobody loses on defense. Kailangan talagang buwis-buhay.”
Clarito delivered a career-first: a 20-point, 21-rebound performance in 30 excruciating minutes of pure hustle and heart.
While Clarito was spot on about the team’s shooting woes from deep, the Elasto Painters made up for it on the glass.
Rain or Shine made just nine triples but hauled down 55 rebounds, including 18 on the offensive end.
That effort was spearheaded by Clarito—something Guiao certainly didn’t overlook.
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“Jhonard’s efforts were truly extraordinary. Any coach will appreciate that,” said a proud Guiao.
Rain or Shine and NLEX face off one final time in a rubber match on Saturday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
