MANILA, Philippines – On Sunday, Converge defeated Blackwater by a score of 127-109 at the Ynares Center, thereby establishing a compelling case for a Top 2 finish in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup elimination phase.

The FiberXers secured their eighth victory in 11 games, propelling them toward a potential twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs. The team was led by import Cheick Diallo, top rookies Justine Baltazar and Jordan Heading, and all three concluded with 20 or more points.

Converge secured the sole second place position in the league, trailing league leader TNT (6-2).

Dialo recorded a double-double of 20 points and 18 rebounds, while Baltazar, the top rookie pick in the most recent draft, concluded with a conference-high 20 points and 10 rebounds. Heading led the team with 22 points on 3-of-5 shooting from three-point range.

The opportunity to secure a twice-to-beat advantage in the semifinals was emphasized by Coach Franco Atienza of Converge, who described it as a highly desirable incentive for any team. This prospective accomplishment would be a significant milestone for the franchise, as it would be the first time in its history that Converge has been in contention for a strategic advantage.

Atienza acknowledged that each team strives to acquire this advantage, which provides a substantial advantage in the postseason. Not only does a twice-to-beat advantage offer the team a cushion, but it also places additional pressure on opponents, thereby establishing a favorable environment for advancing further into the competition. The hard work, consistency, and determination that the team exhibited throughout the season would be reflected in this accomplishment.

This opportunity is a testament to the advancements that Converge has made as a franchise. Acquiring this advantage would emphasize the team’s development, indicating their preparedness to compete at a higher level against the league’s most formidable opponents. 

The twice-to-beat advantage is more than just a strategic advantage; it is the result of Converge’s unwavering commitment to excellence and perseverance, emphasizing the organization’s resolve to become a dominant force in the league.

The San Miguel Beermen, the defending champions, will be the opponents of the FiberXers during their final game on Friday.

Coach Franco Atienza underscored the significance of concentrating on the current challenge, which for Converge is their final elimination round game against the formidable San Miguel team. He emphasized that their immediate objective is to perform at their highest level and prepare exhaustively for this critical matchup.

Although Atienza recognized the importance of defeating San Miguel, he also acknowledged that the team’s position in the league could still be influenced by other games. He emphasized the unpredictable nature of the quarterfinal scenarios, in which the results are contingent upon the performance of the teams and the results of other matches.

Atienza emphasized that Converge’s primary objective is to maintain control over the areas within their capabilities, despite the uncertainty. He emphasized the significance of recognizing their own obligations and ensuring that they do not squander any opportunities.

Converge is resolute in its commitment to adopt a proactive and disciplined approach to its final elimination game, as they prepare to compete for a berth in the semifinals.

Alec Stockton tallied 19 points for Converge, while JL Delos Santos and Deschon Winston each scored 10. Three additional players also reached double figures.

All-encompassing import George King once again led the way for Blackwater, scoring 34 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists, including four from the four-point line. Jaydee Tungcab and Justine Chua also made significant contributions, scoring 20 points and 20 points, respectively.

Tungcab scored all of his 20 points in the first half, with 18 of them coming in the second quarter, as he impeded Converge’s early momentum.

Bossing actually fought their way back from a 78-58 deficit early in the third period to make a fight out of it, ultimately winning 93-86.

However, it was only a matter of time before the FiberXers obliterated the Bossing to secure the one-sided victory.

Blackwater is on the verge of being eliminated for the second consecutive conference, having fallen to a 2-8 record.

The game ended with Converge winning with 127 points, and Blackwater with 109.