The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters looked like they were finally ready to turn the corner after making it to their first semifinals stint in the post-Yeng Guiao era in last season's Commissioner's Cup. All of that momentum, though, dissipated quickly due to bad import choices and internal issues as they were booted out after the elimination round.
But now the Elasto Painters are ready to move forward.
"It was a short offseason so we only had four practice games, two here and two in Bahrain. We've put in a new system as we want more ball movement with the players we have now. So far they have enjoyed the new offense and now we're working on our defense," said head coach Caloy Garcia.
A big part of why the team is excited to start the new season is the addition of two talented rookies. With the sixth and eighth picks in the 2018 PBA Draft, Rain or Shine nabbed Javee Mocon and Jjay Alejandro.
"Our rookies are both good. We probably could have a replacement for Chris (Tiu) in Jjay. He still has limitations on defense but, in terms of offense, I think he'll be a really good player in the league," Garcia said. "Javee is a complete player and it's really tough to find a guy like that. I know he plays as a big with San Beda but I was pleasantly surprised that he's doing pretty well as a wing for us. He has a strong body, definitely PBA ready."
Veteran defender Jireh Ibanes is also making his way back into the rotation after being sidelined for an entire year due to an injury. Kris Rosales, a player they received from the TNT KaTropa as part of the package for Jericho Cruz, will finally debut for the squad.
"They were out of action for a prolonged period so it might take a little more time for them to adjust," the coach said. "Actually, for our team, as long as our veterans stay away from injury, we'll be okay."
Another player who will be returning to the squad is Raymond Almazan. The difference was that he left because of personal reasons and not because of injuries. According to Garcia, the center is eager to make up for lost time.
"Raymond has been working hard. We can see that he really wants to make it up to his teammates and for the organization. As long as he's focused, he'll do well."
"I'm still working on getting back in 100% shape," said the talented center. "I talked to the coaching staff and my teammates to apologize so that's all in the past. What's important now is how we'll perform in the Philippine Cup."
For Garcia, the goals he has set for the team are modest.
"Our goal is to make it at least to the semifinals. But of course, we know how tough the field is going to be. Every team got better, every team got stronger. So all I have to do is just think about my team that we have right now and I feel that we can compete. So we just have to come out every game hungrier than the other team," Garcia said.