MANILA, Philippines — Much of Powerade’s improbable run in the PBA Philippine Cup can be attributed to Gary David’s hot shooting.

After averaging 21 points in the elimination round, David torched B-Meg with 32 and 37 points as the Tigers swept their best-of-three quarterfinal series.

David made 13 of 21 shots from the field in Game 1 and went 8-of-10 from beyond the arc in Game 2.

He also holds the conference record 42 points when the Tigers beat Petron, 108-94, last Oct. 11.

David will be a marked man when Powerade battles Rain or Shine in a best-of-seven semifinal series starting on Jan. 4 at the Astrodome in Pasay City.

Can Rain or Shine stop David?

Veteran coach Yeng Guiao thinks so.

Guiao said they have the materials to match up well with the league’s leading scorer.

“We have tall and quick players to match up with David,” said Guiao, referring to 6-foot-4 Gabe Norwood, 6-foot-1 guards Ryan Arana and Jireh Ibañez who he plans to rotate against Powerade’s scoring machine.

“As strong as B-Meg was, they lack the type of players who can really defend him. They put PJ Simon on him, who is a bit shorter and known for his offense. That’s why Gary went berserk against B-Meg in that series,” he added.

However, since Rain or Shine has yet to resume practice after sweeping Ginebra last Wednesday, Guiao said his coaching staff has not decided the defensive strategy against David.

“Our priority right now is matching up with Powerade, which I think we have a good chance. But in terms of strategy, we still don’t have a plan,” he said.

“If we can limit Gary within his averages of 21 points, I think we’re still good with that. But if he gets to score 30-up, and then other players will contribute, we’ll have a problem. But I coached Gary, so I know his strength and weak points,” Guiao added.