Redemption After Opening Day Heartbreak
Following a heartbreaking loss to Meralco on opening day, the Converge FiberXers bounced back with a commanding 92-83 victory over the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters in the PBA Philippine Cup on Sunday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
The FiberXers showed no signs of lingering disappointment from their narrow 89-91 defeat to the Bolts. Instead, they hit the court with renewed energy and focus, quickly asserting control of the game and never looking back.
Strong Start for Phoenix, But Converge Takes Over
Phoenix initially came out strong, determined to avoid a second consecutive loss after falling to Terrafirma, 87-95, in the tournament opener. Led by Kai Ballungay and Tyler Tio, the Fuel Masters took a slim 24-19 lead after the first quarter.
However, Converge turned the tide in the second period, outscoring Phoenix and taking a 44-38 lead into halftime. From there, they maintained momentum and control for the rest of the game, effectively sealing their first win of the conference.
Standout Performances Spark FiberXers’ Win
Alex Stockton Shines Bright
Alex Stockton emerged as the star of the night for Converge. The guard delivered a game-high 18 points, including two crucial three-pointers, while also contributing six rebounds, two blocks, and an assist in a well-rounded 30-minute performance.
Arana and Baltazar Control the Paint
Big men Justin Arana and Justine Baltazar provided the inside presence the FiberXers needed. The duo combined for 19 points and dominated the boards with 26 rebounds, alongside four assists, two steals, and two blocks. Their physicality in the paint overwhelmed Phoenix’s frontcourt.
Bench Sparks: Winston and Santos Deliver
Off the bench, Schonny Winston and Bryan Santos played key roles. Winston added 14 points and eight rebounds, while Santos shot an efficient 3-of-6 from beyond the arc en route to a 12-point performance. Their contributions ensured that Converge’s offensive rhythm never faltered.
Fuel Masters Falter Again
Phoenix, now 0-2 in the conference, struggled to find consistency. Ballungay led the Fuel Masters with 15 points, while Tyler Tio chipped in 13. Despite a strong opening frame, the team failed to match Converge’s intensity and efficiency for the remainder of the game.
Converge’s dominance was reflected in the numbers:
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Field Goal Percentage: 39% vs Phoenix’s lower output
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Rebounds: 65-52, in favor of Converge
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Assists: 23-13, highlighting better ball movement
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Starting Line Efficiency: Converge’s starters outscored Phoenix’s, 44-26
The FiberXers’ starting unit—Stockton, Racal, Baltazar, Kevin Racal, and JL delos Santos—set the tone early and maintained control, paving the way for a convincing win.
This win gives Converge an important boost in morale and standings early in the Philippine Cup, while Phoenix faces pressure to regroup quickly after back-to-back losses. With a long season ahead, both teams will be looking to build momentum and find their rhythm in the coming games.
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