For three straight seasons, the Converge FiberXers have managed to reach the playoffs, only to stall in the quarterfinals. It’s been a sign of progress but also a reminder that the young franchise is still searching for that breakthrough. With the selection of Juan Gomez de Liaño as the No. 2 overall pick in the PBA Season 50 Draft, head coach Dennis “Delta” Pineda is confident that the missing piece has finally arrived.

What makes Juan stand out isn’t just his talent but the maturity he brings at a relatively young age. At 25, he has already played in international leagues, giving him poise and perspective that most rookies don’t possess. For a Converge squad made up largely of promising but inexperienced players, that kind of leadership could make all the difference once the postseason intensity kicks in.

The FiberXers aren’t starting from scratch either. They’ve built a core that includes frontcourt anchors Justine Baltazar and Justin Arana, plus backcourt weapons like Alec Stockton and Schonny Winston. Adding Juan to that group provides a dynamic guard who can both create for others and take control in crunch time—a quality Converge has been searching for.

Pineda has also surrounded the team with seasoned basketball minds. Former national team coach Rajko Toroman and Serbian consultant Djordje Jovicic are now part of the staff, ensuring that the FiberXers’ development is guided by proven expertise. Together with a maturing roster, the setup gives Converge a more balanced mix of youthful energy and experienced direction.

The goals, however, remain simple. After three consecutive quarterfinal exits, Converge is setting its sights firmly on a semifinal appearance. For Pineda, this isn’t just an ambition but a realistic step forward as the team continues to grow. “It’s time for us to take that next leap,” he noted, echoing the sentiment that both the players and the fans are ready for more.

For his part, Gomez de Liaño has embraced the challenge. He has spoken about his excitement to be part of Converge’s plans and his desire to compete not just for playoff spots but for championships. That blend of confidence and commitment matches perfectly with the franchise’s ambitions.

If the FiberXers do manage to crack the semifinals, it will mark a turning point in their short PBA history. And if they succeed, much of the credit will go to the arrival of Juan Gomez de Liaño—a player seen not just as a rookie, but as the catalyst Converge has been waiting for.