With Justin Arana and Justine Baltazar delivering the numbers, the Converge FiberXers were winners once again in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup.
Converge coach Franco Atienza did not seem surprised that his prized big men came up with another spectacular performance against Blackwater in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup Sunday night, April 13.
Justin Arana and Justine Baltazar produced double-double numbers to power the FiberXers' 111-80 drubbing of the Bossing. This allowed them to rebound from a setback to Magnolia and even their record at 2-2.
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Arana put up 19 points and 11 rebounds he spiked with three blocks in almost 28 minutes of action, while rookie Baltazar had 16 points and 10 rebounds along with two assists, a steal and a block.
“Well, because these guys are hardworking. These guys are dedicated professionals. Given 'yon with the talent that they have and the hard work they do. 'Pag pinagsama mo 'yon, you will not go wrong with that,” Atienza said after the match at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
At halftime, the duo already combined for 23 of the team’s 49 points as Converge recovered from a so-so opening period and set up the blowout with a 28-14 second quarter outburst.
It was all FiberXers from there.
While their performances deserve praise, Atienza stressed that the win is still rooted in team effort. Fortunately for the amiable mentor, he has a strong supporting cast at his disposal that is ready to complement Baltazar and Arana.
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In fact, it was Schonny Winston who was adjudged Player of the Game after coming up with 16 points, three rebounds, five assists and a block.
Rey Suerte scored 11 points, while Bryan Santos submitted 10 points, three rebounds, an assist, and a steal.
“We’re thankful with that double-double once more, but it still is a team game. We need the rest of the guys,” Atienza said.
“I’m confident the rest of the guys will provide the needed help doon sa dalawang Justins.”
Meanwhile, the win remained elusive for the Bossing in two games this conference.
RK Ilagan spearheaded Blackwater with 19 points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Richard Escoto added 11 points and four boards.
Converge vs Blackwater Scores
CONVERGE 111 – Arana 19, Winston 16, Baltazar 16, Suerte 11, B. Santos 10, Garcia 9, Delos Santos 7, Racal 5, Stockton 4, Fleming 4, Caralipio 4, Corpuz 3, R.Santos 2, Nermal 1.
BLACKWATER 80 – Ilagan 19, Escoto 11, Chua 9, Tungcab 9, Caperal 7, Kwekuteye 6, Barefield 5, Jopia 4, Guinto 3, Andrade 3, Ayonayon 2, Mitchell 2, Casio 0, Mallilin 0, David 0.
Quarterscores: 21-24, 49-38, 81-53, 111-80.