A Battle Between Cabalens: Aguilar vs. Baltazar
In a highly anticipated homecoming clash at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center in San Fernando, Pampanga, Barangay Ginebra’s Japeth Aguilar emerged as the clear victor over fellow Kapampangan Justine Baltazar. Hailing from Sasmuan town, Aguilar delivered a dominant performance in front of his provincial crowd, scoring a game-high 23 points and spearheading Ginebra’s decisive 85-66 victory over the Converge FiberXers.
Baltazar, while managing a double-double of his own with 13 points and 10 rebounds, struggled to match Aguilar’s intensity and impact. His output wasn’t enough to lift the FiberXers, who were outmatched from the opening quarter until the final buzzer.
Ginebra Bounces Back with Authority
Coming off a loss, the Gin Kings entered the game with urgency and precision. The team quickly established control with a 23-13 first-quarter lead, setting the tone for the rest of the contest. By halftime, the margin had grown to 50-34, giving Ginebra a firm grip on the game.
Led by Aguilar, the Kings kept the FiberXers at bay throughout the second half. The closest Converge came was within 10 points, but Ginebra’s consistent energy and tactical discipline shut down any hopes of a comeback.
Team Effort Behind the Win
While Aguilar stood out as the star of the night, Ginebra’s win was bolstered by solid contributions from key players:
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Scottie Thompson
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RJ Abarrientos
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Stephen Holt
Each of these players chipped in at least 12 points, helping distribute the offensive load and maintain steady pressure on the FiberXers. The balanced scoring showcased Ginebra’s depth and their ability to rebound collectively from setbacks.
Converge’s Streak Snapped
The loss was a major blow for Converge, who entered the matchup riding a three-game winning streak. Their inability to contain Ginebra’s offense or find rhythm on their own end proved costly. With the defeat, Converge slipped to 6th place in the standings with a 4-3 record.
Even in his home province, Baltazar couldn’t lift his team past the Kings’ superior execution and resolve. His 13-point effort, while respectable, lacked the firepower necessary to counter Aguilar’s inspired outing.
Implications Moving Forward
For Barangay Ginebra, the win boosts their record to 3-2, giving them renewed momentum and a confidence boost. Aguilar’s performance reaffirmed his role as a leader on both ends of the floor, and the team’s defensive intensity could serve as a template for upcoming matchups.
Converge, on the other hand, faces the challenge of regrouping. With their winning streak halted, they’ll need to address both offensive stagnation and defensive lapses if they hope to stay competitive in the middle-tier rankings.
The Pampanga duel was more than just a regular season game—it was a symbolic showdown between two hometown stars. In the end, Japeth Aguilar’s poise, power, and leadership carried Ginebra to a commanding win, leaving a strong impression on fans and sending a message to the rest of the league. As the tournament progresses, performances like these will define the playoff picture—and Ginebra is once again proving they’re built for big moments.
