The road ahead is no easy feat for Rain or Shine.
The Elasto Painters will be confronting a formidable lineup of opponents, including national teams from three prominent Middle Eastern countries and the region’s most storied basketball clubs in the 2023 William Jones Cup.
The tournament commences on Saturday.
For the E-Painters, the nature of the opposition remains shrouded in mystery.
Nevertheless, under the guidance of mentor Yeng Guiao, this squad is renowned for its resolute attitude and unwillingness to retreat from a challenge.
Expect nothing less than a full-throttle effort from the franchise owned by Raymond Yu and Terry Que as they strive to uphold the Philippines’ honor in the Jones Cup.
The most recent victory in this prestigious tournament was achieved by the Mighty Sports team, replete with imports, in 2019.
ROS Governor Atty. Mert Mondragon conveyed, “We will face remarkably tough teams—taller and quicker, including national teams. While we make no grand promises, I am certain that our players will not shy away from adversity. They will fight resolutely to uphold the PBA’s and the nation’s honor.”
Elevating the team’s potential are Gilas Pilipinas’ Ange Kouame and American import Nick Evans.
The duo joins forces with a budding core featuring Rey Nambatac, Anton Asistio, Santi Santillan, Andrei Caracut, Gian Mamuyac, Nick Demusis, and Shaun Ildefonso.
Providing veteran leadership are Gabe Norwood, Jewel Ponferrada, and Beau Belga, complemented by now-vets such as Jhonard Clarito, Mac Belo, and Mark Borboran.
The delegation is spearheaded by ROS Alternate Governor Edison Oribina, Redmond Yu, and Jireh Ibanez.
Rain or Shine is set to commence the tournament against the host nation, Chinese Taipei, engaging in back-to-back games—Team A on August 12 and Team B the following day.
Subsequently, the Elasto Painters are slated to challenge the national teams of UAE on the 14th, Qatar on the 15th, and Iran on the 16th.
Their schedule also includes a match against the Korean Basketball League champions, Anyang KGC, on August 17, followed by a day of respite.
The competition concludes with a faceoff against the Japan U22 national team on August 19, culminating in a final clash against the US NCAA UC Irvine on August 20.
