MANILA, Philippines – In the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Converge defeated TNT 96-95 on Tuesday, thanks in large part to Brian “Scotty” Hopson’s clutch play in the closing minutes of the game.

Before the final buzzer sounded, Hopson continued his heroics by blocking Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who was driving, to cap off his 32-point performance. This gave the FiberXers a one-point lead in the final 3.6 seconds.

In Converge’s most recent game, interim head coach Franco Atienza emphasized the value of collaboration and effort, particularly in light of the team’s recent disheartening loss. To create a chance to clinch a victory, the team focused on playing as a unit, keeping up the intensity, and avoiding a big disadvantage. Atienza said that their triumph was largely due to the league’s decision to award shots made from 27 feet out.

For Converge, the adoption of the four-point line changed everything. Without that, there was probably no chance for them to win because the game would have gone into overtime. The squad was able to move past the disappointment of their 93-105 loss to Magnolia by taking advantage of this new regulation. Converge’s record now stands at 2-1 after their win, which also moved them into a tie for first place in Group A with their most recent opponent.

Hollis-Jefferson’s 32-point performance, which included four straight charity baskets to give TNT a 95-93 lead heading into the final 9.6 seconds of play, was completely overshadowed.

But Hopson came to the rescue, dribbling to his right to gain some distance from Glenn Khobuntin and tip off the first four-point game-winning basket in league history.

Hopson exhibits remarkable composure throughout pivotal times in a game, trusting his gut to get him through the stress. His recent performance, in which he not only made a clutch shot but also made a huge contribution with 10 rebounds and four assists, demonstrated his composed nature.

Hopson has continuously made game-winning shots throughout his career, demonstrating his ability to function well under duress. His ability to perform under pressure was demonstrated once again by this latest triumph, which enhanced his standing as a trustworthy closer. Hopson credits these instances to the innumerable hours he has dedicated to practice on the court by himself, perfecting his techniques when no one else is around.

His commitment to his profession has paid off time and time again, enabling him to stand up and lead his team to victory at crucial junctures. His expertise and confidence, which make him a key member of his squad, show in his ability to perform under pressure and maintain composure.

Hopson’s clutch play and all-around on-court effort highlight how crucial he is to the group’s success. He is an important player in his team’s quest for victory in the PBA Governors’ Cup because of his leadership and composure under pressure.

Throughout the majority of the game, the Tropang Giga held a 56-40 lead at the interval, but they were obviously rattled when the FiberXers began to play with renewed vigor in the third period.

Hopson received assistance from Justin Arana, Alec Stockton, Schonny Winston, and even Alex Cabagnot, and their efforts paid off as Converge even seized an 86-83 lead.

In addition to his 15 rebounds and six assists, Hollis-Jefferson scored a triple to give TNT a 91-89 lead. He then responded to Cabagnot’s three-point attempt with a pair of free throws, which gave the Tropa their final advantage.

Winston, Arana, Kevin Racal, and Cabagnot all scored at least ten points apiece for Converge, with Calvin Oftana being the only other TNT player in double figures with 22 points and 10 rebounds.

Despite his low scoring total of eight points, Stockton managed to grab ten rebounds.

Scores at the end of the match

CONVERGE with 96 points for the win

Individual scores: Hopson 32, Winston 14, Arana 13, Racal 12, Cabagnot 10, Stockton 8, Santos 5, Delos Santos 2, Ambohot 0, Andrade 0, Caralipio 0, Nieto 0.

TNT with 95 points

Individual scores: Hollis-Jefferson 32, Oftana 22, Castro 8, Aurin 7, Khobuntin 7, Nambatac 6, Heruela 5, Erram 5, Pogoy 3, Payawal 0.

Scores per quarter

16-29, 40-53, 64-70, 96-95