PBA: San Miguel downs Rain or Shine in Philippine Cup debut

San Miguel Beer made its debut in the PBA Philippine Cup and took down Rain or Shine, 109-97, on Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Beermen pulled away in the third quarter and unloaded a 35-point romp against the Elasto Painters' 28 points to end the said frame at 91-73. SMB led by 20, 107-87, with less than four minutes left in the fourth period before claiming the win.

Jericho Cruz had 20 points, Marcio Lassiter had 17 points, while Don Trollano had 16 points, nine rebounds, and an assist in the Beermen's win. June Mar Fajardo, in his return after missing the first window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers due to injury, posted 15 points, 10 rebounds, an assist, and a steal.

The win spoiled Santi Santillan's career-high 31 points and 14 rebounds for Rain or Shine as they went down to 0-4.

Scores:

San Miguel – Cruz 20, Lassiter 17, Trollano 16, Fajardo 15, Romeo 13, Tautuaa 7, Perez 7, Teng 6, Brondial 5, Enciso 3, Ross 0, Manuel 0

Rain or Shine – Santillan 31, Belga 18, Clarito 18, Caracut 9, Mamuyac 9, Belo 5, Nocum 3, Nocum 2, Demusis 2, Concepcion 0, Norwood 0, Asistio 0.

Quarters: 24-22, 56-45, 91-73, 109-97.

—JKC/GMA Integrated News