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SCHEDULE: 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Semifinals
Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings’ Tim Cone and Troy Rosario react during a game vs Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
ANTIPOLO—Troy Rosario wasn’t surprised at all by how physical Game 1 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals turned out.
Following Barangay Ginebra’s close 115-111 loss to Rain or Shine on Wednesday night at Ynares Sports Center here, Rosario said he expected nothing less from the Elasto Painters.
“Knowing Rain or Shine, they really play like that,” he told the Inquirer. “At the start of the game alone, we felt the pressure. We knew coming into this series that we’ll have games like these and we’re ready.”
Troy Rosario after Ginebra’s Game 1 loss. The series head to the MOA Arena for Game 2. #PBA50 | @MeloFuertesINQ pic.twitter.com/QzYMpcAwVp
— INQUIRER Sports (@inquirersports) May 20, 2026
Rosario flexed his muscles inside with seven points and 13 rebounds.
The problem for Ginebra was that he had to contend with Rain or Shine import Jaylen Johnson, who erupted for 40 points and 19 rebounds.
Rain or Shine Elasto Painters’ Jaylen Johnson during a game vs Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
Beyond the individual matchups, the game also featured plenty of physical play.
At one point late in the fourth quarter, Jhonard Clarito accidentally hit Scottie Thompson in the head, leaving the Ginebra star with a nasty bump.
For Rosario, that level of physicality was expected—and he believes it’s only the beginning.
“That thing is probably just the first,” Rosario said.
“We knew that if this series went far, we’d feel even more pain. All of us had different things, bruises and all that, but it’s part of the game that we have to learn because teams are really preparing for games like these.”
Rosario and the Gin Kings now turn their focus to Game 2 on Friday at Mall of Asia Arena.
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