WATCH: San Miguel vs Rain or Shine Highlights [SF Game 3 | PBA S48 PH Cup | May 22, 2024]

Despite Rain or Shine solving one major problem, they couldn’t quite handle the talented crew of San Miguel during Wednesday’s game as the Beermen clinched a 117-107 victory over the Elasto Painters at the Dasmarinas City Arena in Cavite, inching closer to a sweep in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals.

While June Mar Fajardo faced some challenges, players like CJ Perez, Marcio Lassiter, Don Trollano, and Terrence Romeo stepped up to help SMB overcome Rain or Shine’s threat.

The team now holds a commanding 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven series, putting them in a strong position to advance.

“The boys were really composed, especially in the last five minutes ng game,” said SMB coach Jorge Gallent. “It’s just composure and we knew where to go pagdating sa endgame. Fortunately, Terrence’s shots went in and Don’s went in, so that’s a good a sign for us.”

In PBA history, teams that have taken a 3-0 lead in a series have gone on to win, with eight of those series ending in sweeps. SMB has the chance to achieve the same feat as the series heads back to the MOA Arena on Friday.

Despite Fajardo’s lower scoring output, other players like Perez, Lassiter, Trollano, and Romeo delivered impressive performances to secure the win. Perez recorded 23 points and 14 rebounds, Lassiter added 21 points including five three-pointers, and Trollano contributed 20 points and 11 boards. Romeo, on the other hand, shone in the fourth quarter, scoring all 13 of his points in crucial moments.

Rain or Shine put up a strong fight, with improved performance compared to their previous game. However, when it came down to crunch time, the Beermen’s experience proved to be the difference.