0413 CONVSBWE 1Q
0413 CONVSBWE 2Q
0413 CONVSBWE 3']
0413 CONVSBWE 4
FiberXers Dominate in a Statement Win
Converge FiberXers delivered a commanding performance on Palm Sunday, dismantling the struggling Blackwater Bossing with a 111-80 blowout win in the 2024 PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. With this emphatic victory, Converge leveled their record at 2-2 heading into a crucial two-week break before facing a title-hungry TNT Tropang 5G squad.
The FiberXers leaned on a balanced attack and a suffocating defense, turning a close contest into a runaway victory during the middle quarters. A 28-14 run in the second period followed by a 32-15 blitz in the third allowed them to pull away for good, leaving the Bossing in the dust.
Big Three Lead the Charge
Justin Arana led the way with a double-double, posting 19 points and 11 rebounds. His scoring surge in the middle quarters helped shift the momentum firmly in Converge’s favor. He got plenty of help from teammates Schonny Winston and Justine Baltazar.
Winston filled the stat sheet with 16 points, 5 assists, and 3 rebounds, while Baltazar also recorded a double-double with 16 points and 10 boards. Their contributions were vital as Converge made life miserable for a Blackwater team still reeling from a previous 106-84 beating at the hands of San Miguel.
Three-Point Shooting and Defense Make the Difference
Converge’s sharp shooting from long range was a major storyline. The FiberXers drained half of their three-point attempts, finishing with a stellar 50% shooting clip from beyond the arc—just a tick below their impressive 51.7% overall shooting percentage.
Winston and Baltazar each knocked down 2-of-3 triples, while Rey Suerte went 3-of-4. Their collective accuracy reflects the team’s commitment to using the three-point line as a strategic weapon.
“It should be a weapon. Kaya inilagay ang three-point shooting para gamitin. They’ve been working on it in practice so kailangan itira nila,” said head coach Franco Atienza.
Winston echoed that sentiment, emphasizing their preparation: “We put a lot of work in practice, before and after,” he shared.
A Reinvented Identity: Defense First
While their offense dazzled, it was their defense that truly anchored the victory. Converge limited Blackwater to just 34% shooting from the field, showcasing the defensive intensity that Atienza wants to become the team’s hallmark.
“We have to reinvent ourselves and have the defensive identity. We know that we’ll get our shots, but if we want to be a contender, we have to toughen up on defense,” Atienza added.
Looking Ahead
The FiberXers now shift their focus to April 27, when they return to action against TNT Tropang 5G at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. TNT, fresh off a Philippine Cup title and eyeing a historic Grand Slam, represents a serious test for Converge.
“It’s good to win this game before our long break and before facing a tough, tough team in TNT,” said Atienza, already eyeing their next challenge.
For now, Converge can enjoy a well-earned breather, knowing they’ve rediscovered their rhythm—and possibly a winning formula.