Converge ends long slump

ANTIPOLO , Philippines —  Playing more like the contender that pundits tipped the squad to be, Converge finally shook off the blues.

The FiberXers handled their task in a businesslike manner and clobbered Titan Ultra, 103-82, to end a horrendous five-game skid in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup last night at Ynares Center Antipolo.

It was a collaborative endeavor from the Delta Pineda-coached squad, which leaned on a balanced production that saw all 12 players in the scoresheet and hard-nosed defending in picking up a W again since their 104-92 opening verdict over Macau last March 11.

“Talagang walang tigil kami sa pagdarasal para makuha ‘yung pangalawang panalo,” said Pineda as the FiberXers improved to 2-5 while dropping the Giant Risers to 2-4.

“At least ‘yung stats namin, hindi na nagkakalayo sa last four games, halos nandun na ‘yung chemistry ng bata, unti-unting na nabi-build.”

Calvin Abueva shot 14 points spiked by a 4-of-5 clip from the three-point arc, and provided the intangibles as he faced off with his former team for the first time since getting traded to Converge last February.

Justin Arana banged in 19, Juan Gomez de Liaño shot 15 to go with seven rebounds and import Kylor Kelly scored 10 plus 14 boards to lead the FiberXers’ scoring parade.

“Ginawa ko lang ang role ko para sa team,” said Abueva, who had a brilliant stint with the Giant Risers in the Philippine Cup before joining Converge.