MANILA, Philippines – Converge chases a twice-to-bid. If at all, gaining the favor of powerful San Miguel Beer would be a major factor.

Coach Franco Atienza stated, “Kung papalarin, we want that,” with the expectation that they can defeat the Beermen and end their PBA Commissioner’s Cup elimination run at 9-3 in order to have a chance at a twice-to-beat incentive in the quarterfinals.

At the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo, the FiberXers and the Beermen square off in a crucial match at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Coach Leo Austria’s team is vying for the eighth and last berth in the post-elims play.

Eight-time MVP June Mar Fajardo and Converge’s rookie ace monster Justine Baltazar square off in an intriguing set-up.

In anticipation of his first-ever showdown against June Mar Fajardo, Baltazar pledged to fully prepare for the game plan and put in the required effort. He underlined the significance of carrying out plans and staying focused, acknowledging the difficulty that lies ahead.

Coach Atienza is optimistic that Justin Arana will recuperate in time to counter Fajardo by adding more help to their frontcourt. With the help of team staff, Arana had to depart the floor early due to an injury sustained during their last game. Although his availability is still unknown, the team is prepared for any eventuality.

Atienza emphasized his team’s “next man up” ethos while expressing confidence in their depth. He emphasized the value of depending on other players to step up and contribute, regardless of Arana’s position. The coaching staff is committed to making the most of the roster’s potential and hopes to equal Fajardo’s supremacy through teamwork and tactical changes.

The matchup between Baltazar and Fajardo, which sets a young player against a seasoned PBA juggernaut, is expected to be a major subplot. Whether or not Arana is present, the squad is getting ready to handle the physicality and skills that Fajardo brings to the court. It is anticipated that the game will put their adaptation and resilience to the test, demonstrating the team’s determination to take on strong opponents.

Converge would momentarily take the lead in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup rankings with a 9-3 record if they were to win. There are still a number of clubs vying for postseason spots, and the competition is fierce. Meralco and Eastern both have a 7-3 record, while NorthPort has an 8-3 record. With a record of 6-3, TNT is still in the running, guaranteeing that the postseason race will continue to be extremely competitive.

Converge is clearly focused on taking control of their future going into their showdown versus San Miguel. Their approach depends on addressing the current issue and making sure they win without the help of outside forces. The team understands the significance of every game in securing their position and is committed to controlling what they can. Even if a tie in the standings is a real possibility, Converge is determined to be consistent and carry out their strategy successfully in order to prevent such a situation.

The San Miguel Beermen need to win this game in order to stay in the playoffs. They presently share eighth place with the Magnolia Hotshots and the NLEX Road Warriors after a 4-6 record. As they attempt to escape the precarious situation they are in, every game that remains is crucial. The Beermen must win this game because a loss could severely harm their hopes of winning a quarterfinal spot.

Blackwater and Phoenix, who have identical 3-8 records and are on the verge of elimination, are further down the standings. Their chances of making it to the quarterfinals are minimal and depend on other teams collapsing in addition to winning their remaining games. Both teams have a difficult time surviving the competition; they must defeat strong opponents and hope for positive outcomes elsewhere.

Every game is crucial as the elimination round draws to a close for teams vying for spots or just trying to salvage their seasons. While San Miguel is fighting for their lives, Converge sees the potential to take the lead as an opportunity to set the tone going into the playoffs. There is nothing more at risk.