MANILA (PBA/2015 FIBA Asia Championship) - The Philippines Basketball Association Commissioner's Cup didn't start on a winning note for Rain or Shine but their fortunes changed dramatically in the two games to follow against Talk 'N Text.

Gabe Norwood and Paul Lee, vital contributors to the national team program who stand a very good chance of being with Gilas Pilipinas at the 2015 FIBA Asia Championship, had big performances in Game 2 and Game 3 as Rain or Shine bounced back from their opening defeat to lead the best-of-seven Finals, 2-1.

Norwood continues to show he is the sort of player that gets the fans on their feet.

He can play the game above the rim, something he did often with Gilas at the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

In Game 2 of the Commissioner's Cup, it was another aspect of his game that helped the team to victory.

He and Lee combined to hit seven of 11 shots from long range with Lee scoring 20 points overall and Norwood 14 in a 116-108 triumph for Rain or Shine.

Talk 'N Text led 62-49 at half-time but failed to press home the advantage.

Then in Game 3, Lee had 17 points to help Rain or Shine win, 109-97.

Lee also took one in the mouth for his team when he caught an elbow while playing defense in the third quarter.

It cost him a tooth and a bloody mouth.

After leaving the game for several minutes, he returned but his status for Game 4 is uncertain.

Yeng Guiao, the coach of Rain or Shine, said: "Paul Lee lost a tooth but we won the game..."

Lee was proud of his team's fighting spirit in Game 3 and seemed to indicate that he would not be missing any part of the series.

It's good that we won, whatever happens to me, even if I get hurt, I shall return - Lee

"I told coach Yeng that I will return to the game," Lee said.

"I want to show to my teammates that I want to win."

Game 4 is to be played at the Smart Aranata Stadium on Wednesday night.

FIBA