Converge notches breakthrough win at Terrafirma’s expense
Converge’s drought has finally come to an end, thanks mainly to the crucial baskets made by import Jamil Wilson when it mattered the most.
Wilson’s performance in overtime was instrumental in Converge’s victory over the Terrafirma Dyip. The new reinforcement sparked the FiberXers’ telling 11-0 run that secured a 103-94 win on Wednesday at the PhilSports Arena.
Finishing the game with a remarkable 32 points, Wilson’s five consecutive points sparked Converge’s comeback from an 88-90 deficit, propelling them to a comfortable 99-90 lead.
The FiberXers displayed resilience throughout the game, ultimately achieving a much-needed victory that not only halted their winless streak of 0-6 in the season-opening tournament but also put an end to their 10-game slide since the previous season’s Governors Cup.
“It was tough. Everybody was disappointed, everybody was getting frustrated because of the results of our past games,” said Converge coach Aldin Ayo. “But we just continued preparing, we just continued practicing hard.”
Wilson attributed his triumph in just his second match as a substitute import to the significant week he had, wherein he focused on familiarizing himself with his teammates, Ayo’s system, and the PBA style of play.
“Chemistry is the biggest thing in basketball,” said Wilson. “When I got here, I didn’t know half of these guys’ names. So just having a week of practice under my belt, getting to know these guys, what they like to do, makes a world of difference.”
Terrafirma suffered another defeat, marking their third consecutive loss and bringing their record to 2-5. Additionally, they have yet to secure a victory in the four games they have played against the team that acquired the Alaska franchise.
Juami Tiongson showcased his former impressive form by scoring 28 points. Stephen Holt contributed 14 points and five steals, while Thomas de Thaey added 12 points and a game-high 18 rebounds for the Dyip.
Javi Gomez de Liano made a significant impact with a double-double performance, scoring 13 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. He even made a crucial three-point shot that tied the game at 88-all, leading to overtime.
However, Terrafirma’s 25 turnovers proved costly as Converge capitalized on them, converting them into 24 points. This had a significant impact on the team, especially considering their upcoming matches against formidable opponents such as unbeaten Magnolia, San Miguel Beer, Meralco, and Rain or Shine.
The scores:
Converge 103 – Wilson 32, Winston 17, Arana 14, Stockton 9, Nieto 7, Racal 6, Delos Santos 6, Wong 5, Balanza 4, Santos 3, Ambohot 0.
Terrafirma 94 – Tiongson 28, Holt 14, Gomez de Liano 13, De Thaey 12, Ramos 6, Alolino 5, Camson 5, Carino 4, Cahilig 3, Calvo 2, Miller 2, Go 0, Daquioag 0.
Quarterscores: 18-22, 43-38, 60-63, 88-88, 103-94.
