Converge’s Aldin Ayo denies tanking allegations: ‘That’s unfair’

Converge head coach Aldin Ayo has refuted the allegations that his team is intentionally losing games in order to secure the first pick in the PBA Season 49 Rookie Draft next year.

Online users have been accusing the FiberXers of deliberately losing games in the ongoing Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup, with the aim of having the opportunity to select Justine Baltazar, who is widely regarded as the top overall pick. However, Coach Ayo has dismissed these claims, deeming it unfair.

Although Baltazar was initially expected to join the 2022 class, he decided to remain with Pampanga instead. Due to the team’s association with Pampanga Gov. Dennis ‘Delta’ Pineda, the MVP of the MPBL has been linked to the ball club.

“I think that’s unfair,” stressed Ayo. “That’s unfair, because malupit pinagdaraanan namin.”

Persistent discussions arose online when Converge experienced a streak of six consecutive losses, ultimately becoming the sole team without a victory in the ongoing competition.

However, their fortunes changed when they triumphed over Terrafirma with a 104-93 overtime win on Wednesday night, providing Ayo with an opportunity to address the matter.

Despite speculations, the 46-year-old firmly refuted any notion of deliberately losing games, attributing their unfortunate record solely to ill-fated circumstances despite their utmost efforts.

“Talk N Text, overtime. Phoenix, game-winner. Ginebra, may mga nangyari roon na nag-cramps,” said the champion NCAA and UAAP mentor. “Pinipiga namin.

“And, grabe kami mag-practice. That’s why these guys deserve to play well, and I’ve been telling the team that we deserve to win dahil grabe kayo mag-ensayo, grabe kami magtrabaho. We’re not looking for that,” he added.

Ayo openly acknowledged that the period of not winning had caused him to question things. However, he understood the importance of persevering and remaining committed to their goals.

Eventually, their determination paid off and they achieved a victory. Despite this, Ayo remains unsatisfied. He is now fully dedicated to assisting the team in not only competing but also developing within the conference.

“Hindi pa ‘ko nabubunutan ng tinik. We’re still 1-6. Disappointed pa rin kami, frustrated pa rin kami, masama pa rin ‘yung pakiramdam namin sa mga talo na ‘to. Pero we’re not going to stop. There’s hope.”