PBA: Adrian Nocum delivers as Rain or Shine fends off Magnolia

MANILA, Philippines—Behind Adrian Nocum’s clutch heroics, Rain or Shine escaped Magnolia, 98-97, in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup at Mall of Asia Arena on Friday.

Nocum delivered the game-winner with 5.6 seconds remaining, leading Elasto Painters to their third straight win for a 3-2 record in Group B after a lowly 0-2 start.

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“They’re learning to win tight games now. This is such an important experience because now they’re learning,” coach Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao said.

“I was just worried about our inability to get to Aaron (Fuller). They [Magnolia] anticipated him and we had some bad turnovers.”

‘AKO NA DIDISKARTE’ 😤

WATCH: Adrian Nocum talks about his late-game heroics against Magnolia that gave Rain or Shine the win. #PBA50 @inquirersports pic.twitter.com/WZaXXX0CoN

— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) July 31, 2026

Rain or Shine trailed by one late, 94-93, before Nocum hit a heavily contested shot in the paint to put the Elasto Painters ahead, 95-94, with 1:28 remaining.

Jhonard Clarito split his free throws on Rain or Shine’s next possession before Ian Sangalang converted the putback and the ensuing free throw on Magnolia’s end to restore the Hotshots’ lead, 97-96, with 24.5 seconds left.

That only set the stage for Nocum, who knocked down another heavily contested basket to put Rain or Shine ahead for good, 98-97.

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Nocum finished with a career-high 31 points, nine rebounds, four assists and two steals.

Deo Cuajao added 15 points for the Elasto Painters, while Fuller still posted a double-double of 14 points and 12 rebounds. Luis Villegas chipped in 12.

KJ Buffen paced Magnolia with 31 points and 17 rebounds. Zav Lucero also had a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Sangalang and Paul Lee scored 14 and 13 points, respectively.