(PBA image)
Converge enters its win-or-go-home showdown against Barangay Ginebra with a clear defensive priority: slow down RJ Abarrientos and regain composure when the pressure peaks.
After absorbing a lopsided 105–85 defeat to the Gin Kings on Christmas Day at the Araneta Coliseum, the FiberXers acknowledged that their breakdowns—particularly on the defensive end—proved costly. Converge guard Archie Concepcion did not mince words when asked what needs fixing ahead of the deciding game in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup quarterfinals.
“Siguro mag-aadjust kami sa defense namin, do’n kami nagkulang talaga lalung-lalo na kay RJ,” Concepcion said, stressing that Abarrientos will be a major focus in their next practices. “Marami pa kaming kailangan gawin sa susunod na practice. Isa siya sa bibigyan namin ng pansin talaga.”
RJ Abarrientos torched Converge in the opener, erupting for a career-high 35 points while adding four assists, three rebounds, and two steals. His confidence and rhythm set the tone early and never allowed the FiberXers to mount a serious challenge.
For Converge, the solution goes beyond defensive schemes. Big man Justin Arana believes the team must also correct its own tendencies, particularly when games tighten.
“Siguro sa do-or-die, dapat ‘di kami magmadali kasi ‘pag nararattle o nappressure kami, do’n kami nagcocollapse,” Arana said after a subdued outing of six points and six rebounds. He emphasized patience and mental readiness as Converge prepares for the decider. “Dadahan-dahanin lang namin and then kailangan lang namin mag-prepare ng two days and we’ll see ano’ng mangyayari sa Saturday.”
Converge and Ginebra collide one final time on Saturday at the same venue, with a coveted semifinal berth on the line. Waiting on the other side is defending champion San Miguel Beer—raising the stakes even higher for a FiberXers squad determined to extend its season.