Hotshots lose to FiberXers in final elims game
Converge continued its impressive momentum heading into the playoffs, overcoming Magnolia with a final score of 89-82. This victory not only secured a four-game winning streak to close out the eliminations but also earned them the coveted third seed in Group A of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Monday, September 23.
The FiberXers unleashed a remarkable offensive burst, driven by the dynamic play of King Caralipio, alongside their import Jalen Jones and Justin Arana. This triumph allowed them to finish the eliminations with a solid 6-4 record, setting the stage for a best-of-five quarterfinal clash against San Miguel.
Jones was the standout scorer for Converge, amassing 27 points, although his shooting efficiency left something to be desired, requiring 26 attempts to achieve his total. He contributed significantly with 12 rebounds and four assists.
Arana also delivered a strong performance, recording a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Meanwhile, Alec Stockton and Schonny Winston each added 10 points to the scoreboard.
Caralipio, despite finishing with just nine points, played a crucial role during a pivotal stretch, igniting a sensational 32-point third-quarter surge that propelled Converge ahead after trailing Magnolia, which had held a 15-point lead in the first half.
With this outcome, the playoff landscape was finalized, placing Magnolia in the fourth spot of Group A with a 5-5 record. Consequently, they will face the top seed from Group B, Rain or Shine, in their quarterfinal matchup.
The other quarterfinal pairings include a fierce rivalry contest between third-seed Ginebra and second-seed Meralco, along with a sibling rivalry as Group A’s No. 1 TNT goes up against Group B’s No. 4 NLEX.
Calvin Abueva and Peter Alfaro led Magnolia with 11 points each, although the team curiously opted to limit the minutes of key starters like Mark Barroca, Zav Lucero, and Ian Sangalang.
Notably, Paul Lee also sat out, while the Hotshots showcased their new import, Rayvonte Rice. Unfortunately, he struggled to make an impact, managing only five points on 2-of-14 shooting along with seven rebounds and three assists.
