Bayanihan Media Awards National Winner

Loud cheers meet Converge in debut despite FiberXers loss to ROS

Converge FiberXers team owner billionaire Dennis Anthony Uy (right) and Team Governor Chito Salud thank PBA fans for support at the start of the 4th quarter play against Rain or Shine during the opening game of PBA’s 47th Season (Screen capture from PBA RUSH/CIGNAL)

Despite a 77-79 heartbreaking loss, Converge FiberXers showed true grit and composure as they battled veteran-laden Rain or Shine in their debut in the PBA that was marked by loud cheers from fans at the Araneta Coliseum.

Showing not only defensive gems in the fourth quarter but also inspired basketball with team owner Dennis Anthony Uy watching from the sidelines, the FiberXers bowed to the Elasto Painters on crucial three pointers delivered by Beau Belga and Norbert Gonzales in the opening day tip-off of PBA’s 47th season.

FiberXers relied heavily on scoring from Jeron Teng, lead holdover from Alaska Aces that was purchased by Converge in March this year. Their other veterans Mike Tolomia and Mike Digregorio could not find the hoop well to complement Teng’s 23 points and 12 assists, a rare double double performance.

Trailing by 2 points at end of the 3rd quarter 55-57, Uy , win or lose in a pre 4th quarter interview, thanked Converge fans and PBA followers.

“We are so grateful for the support.  We are new and still fine tuning. In due time (will be ready) for long term. We want to make it in the brand of PBA,” Uy said.

Photo courtesy of Jay Pelayo IV

“Thank you very much to our supporters. It is a great honor. For the fans who are here. This is our first game. Hopefully the fans of PBA can support us,” he added.

 “We expect to bring an exciting brand of basketball. DAU want his players to be young, athletic and entertain the fans. It may take time but we will assure you that we will make the right moves and we will get the right pieces in time,” Chito Salud, Converge Team Governor, said.

Converge is made up mostly of relatively new players, with new rookie big men 6’6” Jeo Ambohot and 6’5” Justin Arana, who were picked number 3 and 4 in the draft, respectively.

Rain or Shine went on 9-0 run from Teng’s jumper at 3:31 in the 4th quarter that put them ahead by 7 points at 73-66.

RK Ilagan converted two free throws to tie the game with 63 seconds remaining. Teng scored a jumper to keep lead at 77-75 as Rain or Shine missed their shot.

In the ensuing play, Belga made a 3-point shot to retake the lead. The FiberXers ball possession was stolen and Nambatac converted one of two free throws with 2.3 seconds left, bringing the game to an end at 77-79.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest