Rain or Shine’s Adrian Nocum during Game 2 of the PBA semifinals against TNT.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Rain or Shine Adrian Nocum didn’t have a lot of explanations after the Elasto Painters’ heartbreaking loss to TNT in Game 2 of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals on Friday night.
A dejected Nocum offered no excuses after the 113-105 overtime defeat that put Rain or Shine into a 0-2 hole in the best-of-seven affair.
READ: PBA rues ‘lapse’ after wrong call that would’ve been costly
ARRRAY KO 🤕
Adrian Nocum’s supposed game-winner… except it wasn’t counted as time ran out before he let the ball go.
TNT currently leads the Elasto Painters, 104-101, with 2:56 left in OT. @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/tbo0hfro5m
— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) June 27, 2025
“Maybe it wasn’t just for us,” said Nocum at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
“We had so many chances but that’s what happened. Like I’ve been saying, all of these have a purpose. We’ll just keep working. [This] series isn’t over and we still have a chance.”
Nocum left it all on the floor for Rain or Shine with 27 points, seven rebounds and three assists.
READ: PBA: Calvin Oftana takes over for ‘amigo’ Roger Pogoy in Game 2 win
The former Mapua star had a golden opportunity to win it for the Painters at the end of regulation but his last-second tip-in came just a tad bit late and the Tropang 5G–led by Calvin Oftana–prevailed in extra session.
“Hopefully, this continues but I still have some bad shots that I shouldn’t take so I’ll watch film and see how I can improve,” said Nocum, who regained his touch after a 13-point outing in Game 1, said.
Nocum and the Elasto Painters look to avoid a 0-3 series deficit on Sunday in Game 3 at Araneta Coliseum.
