Anton Asistio completed what Ange Kouame had initiated, as Rain or Shine secured a heart-pounding 98-90 double-overtime victory against Iran, marking their first win in the 2023 William Jones Cup held at the Taipei Heping Gymnasium on Wednesday.
Asistio displayed unwavering composure and sank a resounding three-pointer with 1:17 remaining in the second overtime, propelling the Elasto Painters to a 93-88 advantage and helping them avoid another collapse in the fourth quarter.
Gabe Norwood, reinserted for defensive purposes, subsequently executed a pivotal stop, enabling Asistio to locate Kouame beneath the basket and solidify the victory for Rain or Shine.
Kouame, who sustained ROS throughout the extra period after relinquishing a 14-point lead in the final five minutes of regulation, concluded with 20 points – 14 of which he delivered in the two overtime periods – alongside nine rebounds and nine blocks.
Andrei Caracut contributed 19 points, while Santi Santillan accumulated 17, spearheading the attack for the Filipinos who established a 72-58 advantage in the fourth quarter.
The Iranians — the same players who Gilas faced in China, however, refused to concede defeat and unleashed a scorching 16-2 run to conclude regulation, compelling the game to enter overtime.
Amir Azari led Iran with 16 points, and Amir Yazarloo and Ali Reza Sharifi contributed 15 points each.
Rain or Shine will aim for a consecutive victory when they face Anyang KGC on Thursday before enjoying a rest day the following day.
