Converge came out firing and never looked back, venting its frustration on Terrafirma with a 125-108 rout in the PBA Philippine Cup on Wednesday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Alec Stockton sizzled with 22 points, while Juan Gomez de Liano delivered another all-around gem—his second triple-double of the young season—posting 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists to steer the FiberXers back to the win column after a tough loss to TNT.
The victory improved Converge’s record to 2-1, powered by a balanced offensive surge that saw six other players score in double figures. Justin Arana and Justine Baltazar each produced double-doubles, anchoring the FiberXers’ dominance inside the paint.
Coach Delta Pineda praised his deep rotation for stepping up when called upon. “Ni-remind ko sila kanina na every one coming from the bench should step up. Good thing most of them did contribute,” said Pineda.
Among those who shone off the bench were newcomers Larry Muyang and John Lloyd Clemente, both scoring 10 points apiece, while Archie Concepcion added energy on both ends.
“Kulang pa rin talaga kami so malaking factor na madagdag sila. Napahinga ‘yung dalawang bigs namin, parehong Justin, napaganda,” Pineda added. “Medyo lumalim bench, pero still puro young players. Iba pa rin ‘yung experience pag nakatapat ka ng big teams.”
Despite a hot start from Terrafirma, Converge took control in the third quarter, outscoring the Dyip 37-25 to stretch the lead to 20, 96-76, heading into the final frame.
Jerrick Ahanmisi led Terrafirma with 16 points, followed by Mark Sangalang with 15. JM Bravo chipped in 13, while four others scored 10 each, but their efforts were not enough to counter the FiberXers’ relentless attack and inside presence.
Converge’s offense thrived on rhythm and teamwork, recording one of its most efficient outings of the season—an encouraging sign for a squad still finding its groove under Pineda’s system.
The scores:
Converge 125 – Stockton 22, Gomez de Liano 17, Garcia 15, Winston 14, Arana 13, Baltazar 12, Clemente 10, Muyang 10, Javillonar 6, Concepcion 3, Delos Santos 0, Santos 0, Suerte 0.
Terrafirma 108 – Ahanmisi 16, Sangalang 15, Hanapi 10, Hernandez 10, Marian 10, Nonoy 10, Paraiso 7, River 6, Catapusan 4, Zaldivar 4, Garcia 3, Olivario 0, Bataller 0.
Quarters: 29-30; 59-51; 96-76; 125-108.