Fiba Europe Cup Basketball

Watching Rain or Shine’s stunning comeback against the Road Warriors last night, I couldn’t help but think—this is the kind of game that makes you question everything. Who truly is the best football player in the world right now? I know, I know—we’re talking basketball here, but the parallels are undeniable. When a team claws back from what looked like certain defeat, individual brilliance often emerges, and suddenly, debates ignite. The Elasto Painters’ 114-110 victory over Converge last Saturday set the stage, but last night’s performance? That was something else entirely. They trailed by as many as 16 points in the third quarter, and honestly, I thought it was over. But then something shifted—a steal here, a clutch three there, and suddenly we’re witnessing one of those gritty, refuse-to-lose efforts that remind you why sports are so compelling.

Let’s rewind a bit. Rain or Shine has been quietly building momentum, and that win over Converge wasn’t just a fluke. They shot 48% from the field, dished out 24 assists, and showed flashes of the fluid, unselfish basketball that wins championships. But last night’s game against the Road Warriors was different. It was messier, more physical, and for long stretches, it felt like Rain or Shine was fighting uphill. I’ve covered this league for over a decade, and I’ve seen teams fold under less pressure. But what stood out to me was how they leaned on each other—no single player tried to do it all alone. Which brings me back to that question: Who truly is the best football player in the world right now? In basketball, we often glorify the superstar who drops 40 points, but games like this make you appreciate the grinders, the players who do the little things. The ones who set screens, dive for loose balls, and make the extra pass.

Statistics only tell part of the story, but let’s look at the numbers anyway. Rain or Shine’s bench contributed 52 points last night, compared to just 28 from the Road Warriors’ reserves. That’s a massive disparity, and it highlights the depth that’s becoming this team’s trademark. Rey Nambatac, who’s been inconsistent at times, finished with 18 points and 7 assists, but more importantly, he was +14 in plus-minus when he was on the floor. Those are the kinds of contributions that don’t always make headlines but absolutely decide games. And it’s not just him—veterans like Beau Belga provided stability when things got chaotic. I spoke with a scout after the game who put it perfectly: "Rain or Shine isn’t built around one guy. They’re a system, and when that system works, they’re tough to beat."

Now, I’ll admit—I’ve always had a soft spot for teams that win with balance rather than relying on a single superstar. Maybe it’s because I grew up watching the San Antonio Spurs, where teamwork was everything. But watching Rain or Shine’s recent run, I can’t help but feel that this approach is what separates good teams from great ones. The Road Warriors have talent, no doubt, but they looked disjointed down the stretch. Meanwhile, the Elasto Painters moved the ball, trusted their offense, and never panicked. That composure, especially in the fourth quarter, was something to behold. They outscored the Road Warriors 32-18 in the final period, and if you ask me, that’s a testament to their conditioning and mental toughness.

So, where does this leave us in the bigger picture? Well, if you’re asking me who truly is the best football player in the world right now, I’d argue it’s not about picking one name—it’s about recognizing that greatness comes in different forms. In basketball, just like in football, the "best" isn’t always the one with the most goals or the flashiest highlights. It’s the player who elevates everyone around them. Right now, Rain or Shine is playing like a team full of those players. They’re not the most talented roster on paper, but they’re proving that chemistry and heart can take you a long way. Last night’s comeback win wasn’t just two points in the standings—it was a statement. And if they keep this up, they’re going to be a nightmare matchup in the playoffs. Mark my words.