Hopson drains four-point game winner anew as Converge edges Terrafirma

Scotty Hopson showcased his late-game heroics once again, this time against Terrafirma after previously doing so against TNT.

The FiberXers’ import delivered a clutch game-winning four-pointer as Converge edged Terrafirma in a thrilling 100-99 victory during the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Saturday, September 14.

Schonny Winston played a crucial role in keeping the FiberXers in contention during the fourth quarter, delivering timely baskets before Hopson seized the moment in Converge’s final possession. With only 2.5 seconds remaining, he executed a fall-away jumper over the outstretched arms of Kevin Ferrer, clinching the victory.

Converge’s defense held strong, putting enough pressure on Terrafirma import Antonio Hester to force an off-balance shot, securing the vital win that positioned them closer to one of the two remaining quarterfinal spots in Group A.

With the victory, the FiberXers improved their record to an even 4-4, breaking a tie with the NorthPort Batang Pier, who slipped to fifth place at 3-5 following their earlier defeat to the Meralco Bolts.

Winston led Converge with a stellar performance, scoring 19 points—13 of which came in the vital final quarter—ensuring that their comeback from a 14-point deficit was not in vain.

Although Hopson was relatively quiet in the second half, managing only a single point after notching 14 in the first two quarters, he made his mark when it mattered most, finishing with 18 points. He displayed his shooting prowess, going a flawless 2-of-2 from beyond the arc, echoing his earlier heroics against TNT. Much like that earlier game, Hopson drove hard to the right wing before pulling up for a shot that found nothing but net.

Alec Stockton contributed 15 points, while Justin Arana and Bryan Santos each added 13.

Terrafirma’s Antonio Hester recorded an impressive double-double with 28 points and 11 rebounds, but the Dyip faced another heart-wrenching defeat after losing 99-98 to Magnolia just two days prior.

Despite losing this time, Terrafirma had a firm grip on the game for much of the contest, leading by as many as 14 points in the second half. Even when the FiberXers began to chip away at the lead in the final frame, the Dyip managed to respond—highlighted by Ferrer’s two free throws that initially seemed to secure the win for Terrafirma.

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