Rookies Tiongson and Lemetti: Instrumental firepower to dark horse Rain or Shine

It is no surprise that the foundation of Rain or Shine has been built through the camaraderie of homegrown talents, who are thirsty to prove their worth and place in the fiercely competed Philippine Basketball Association or PBA.

The Elasto Painters’ roster now boasts an abundance of options on offense and defense, a pivotal balance that could anchor the team away from their 12-year drought of the Governor’s Cup win.

Seasoned veterans might have propelled the team with its depth that proves they could etch their name as one of the most formidable teams, but with the Rain or Shine being bolstered by young players, especially with this year’s draft picks, they might have a chance to attain the crown that was once in their hands.

No.7 overall pick in the draft, Caelan Tiongson proves that it is not too late to pursue one’s dream even at 32. With his impressive credentials, Tiongson is no longer a stranger to the sport. 

A lot of PBA teams wanted to capitalize Tiongson’s experience since showcasing his impressive play in the ASEAN Basketball League, starting with Chong Son Kung Fu and then Alab Pilipinas. 

Tiongson came out of his retirement in 2021 to take another shot at a hoops career by suiting up for Taoyuan Leopards of the T1 League in Taiwan before coming back to the Philippines to play for Strong Group in the 43rd William Jones Cup. 

The 6-foot-5, Filipino-American forward reaped the expectations of Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao as he boosts the team’s frontline when it comes not only on the offense but also on the defense.

“I don't treat Caelan as a rookie anymore,” coach Yeng told Scoreline.ph. “He has played a lot. So, you know his mentality is like a veteran.”

When asked regarding his experience under coach Yeng’s wing, Tiongson shared that he has been great so far and that his gameplay style is different from what he was used to. 

“This is the first time I've played this kind of style of basketball. I'm used to a slower style. So, he just preaches a lot of confidence,” said Tiongson. “Still getting used to it for sure. I have enjoyed playing for him. He wants to win and that’s really what's important when I play for a coach.” 

On the other hand, the No. 8 overall pick in the draft has exceeded forecasts just as his pick came as a shock to some basketball enthusiasts. 

After choosing a more established name in Tiongson, the Elasto Painters took a chance on the Filipino-Swedish Felix Lemetti who was bannering a heap of experience in just the age of 25. 

Before his stint with KFUM Fryshuset Basket of the Swedish Superettan, Sweden’s second-tier men’s pro league, Lemetti already played for three different NCAA Division 1 schools: first with Fairfield, then Omaha, and lastly with Southern Utah.

Lemetti was also exposed to FIBA youth competitions, expounding his background qualifications.

As he parade numerous overseas stints, coach Yeng is positive towards the performance Lemetti is displaying throughout their games.

“He is still young but he has already played in Europe. He has already played in NCAA Division 1. So, he just needs to have more experience or he needs to feel how we play here in the Philippines,” said coach Yeng about Lemetti.

“He has played in 11 games so far, and he will improve every game. But, of course, the playoff is different. He will improve himself. He will be able to adjust.”

Despite having the same sentiments with Tiongson in regards with the Rain or Shine’s main tactician coaching style, Lemetti expressed that it is the style that fits him well.

“I like to push the ball a lot. I like to shoot a lot of threes. It fits me really well,” the Enskede, Stockholm native said.

“Obviously, the winning part was a big thing, that always plays a factor. You always want to win. To be able to do so your first year is a great experience,” he added.

Coach Yeng emphasized that even though the two rookies are making improvement, he believes they will get even better through additional familiarity as they have just barely touched the surface. 

Tiongson, who didn’t play for two years, is practically getting back into the game and polishing his skills, while Lemetti has played in Sweden and the United States, so he is unfamiliar with the local style. 

However, the team is confident in their ability to make the necessary adaptations as Tiongson and Lemetti are one of the key Elasto Painters that can steer the hungry Rain or Shine back to its winning ways.