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Converge shakes off Phoenix, barges into PH Cup win column

Sports | Basketball

Converge shakes off Phoenix, barges into PH Cup win column

By Reynald I. Magallon

At A Glance

Converge shook off a tough stand from Phoenix, 92-83, to barge into the win column in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, Sunday, April 6.

Converge shook off a tough stand from Phoenix, 92-83, to barge into the win column in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, Sunday, April 6.

Denied the first time after Chris Newsome nailed the game-winning jumper in their first game against the Meralco Bolts, the FiberXers made sure there would be no similar collapse this time around to even their record at 1-1.

Alec Stockton led the way for Converge with 18 points and six rebounds while backcourt partner Schonny Winston had 14 points and eight rebounds.

Bryan Santos also chipped in 12 while Justin Arana had 10 points and 10 rebounds and Justine Baltazar with nine points, 16 rebounds and six assists.

The FiberXers actually had to buck a slow start before finding their groove in the middle quarters, eventually resulting in a comfortable 23-point lead, 84-61, midway through the final frame.

The Fuel Masters, though, refused to go down without a fight and still threatened the FiberXers after coming within 11, 79-90, with still over two minutes left in the clock.

Converge, which squandered a huge 20-point lead before losing by two against Meralco, 89-91, made sure it would not be denied this time as free throws from Stockton and Baltazar proved to be enough to seal the win.

After exploding for 30 points last time out, Kai Ballungay still led Phoenix with 15 points and 12 rebounds while Tyler Tio added 13. The Fuel Masters, who are badly missing the services of Jason Perkins, remained winless through two games.

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