Converge FiberXers Unleash Barrage Of Triples, Overwhelm TNT Tropang Giga
4 min read
Converge FiberXers continued their impressive run in the PBA on Tour exhibition series, demolishing the short-handed TNT Tropang Giga with a commanding 109-84 victory at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City Wednesday, June 21.
Jeo Ambohot stole the show with a scorching shooting performance, draining eight three-pointers en route to a career-high 31 points. With this win, Converge secured back-to-back victories and reached the .500 mark with a 3-3 record, while TNT remained winless after four games in the preseason series presented by Arena Plus and sponsored by Bingo Plus.
Ambohot, a versatile forward, showcased his shooting prowess from beyond the arc, capitalizing on the opportunity to impress his coach, Aldin Ayo, ahead of the upcoming PBA season. The former Letran standout’s breakout performance could be a turning point in his career as he aims to become a valuable asset in Converge’s rotation.
Joining Ambohot in the offensive onslaught were Jeron Teng, who contributed 19 points, and Justin Arana, who displayed an exceptional all-around game with 18 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists. Jerick Balanza also made significant contributions with 14 points, while Mike Nieto chipped in with 10 points for the FiberXers.
Converge dominated both the three-point shooting and rebounding categories, making 18 triples compared to TNT’s 11 and outrebounding them 52-42. The FiberXers utilized their advantage in artillery to establish a comfortable lead, entering halftime with a 55-42 advantage. They further extended their dominance in the third quarter, outscoring TNT 23-15 and building a commanding 29-point lead at 76-47.
Glenn Khobuntin continued to shine for the short-handed Tropang Giga, leading his team in scoring with 22 points. Jaydee Tungcab provided support with 15 points, while Carl Bryan Cruz added 13 points, but no other TNT player reached double figures.
Converge’s relentless shooting and strong overall performance overwhelmed the struggling Tropang Giga. Despite TNT’s efforts to contain the FiberXers, they were unable to overcome the firepower and efficiency displayed by Converge. As the preseason series progresses, Converge aims to maintain its winning momentum and establish itself as a formidable force in the upcoming PBA season.
Looking ahead, Converge FiberXers will aim to build on their recent success and carry their momentum into the official PBA season. Coach Aldin Ayo will be pleased with the team’s progress and the emergence of players like Ambohot, Teng, and Arana. The FiberXers have displayed their ability to dominate from the perimeter and control the boards, which will be crucial in their pursuit of success.
On the other hand, TNT Tropang Giga will need to regroup and find ways to turn their fortunes around. The absence of key players such as Jayson Castro, Mikee Williams, Kelly Williams, RR Pogoy, and Poy Erram has undoubtedly affected their performance. However, they can take solace in the consistent scoring output of Glenn Khobuntin, who has been a bright spot for the team.
The boxscores:
CONVERGE 109 —Ambohot 31, Teng 19, Arana 18, Balanza 14, Nieto 10, Racal 8, Stockton 5, Luib 2, Ebona 2, Mendoza 0, Zaldivar 0.
TNT 84 —Khobuntin 22, Tungcab 15, Cruz 13, Cuntapay 9, Marcelo 7, Varilla 7, Jopia 4, Ganuelas-Rosser 3, Alfaro 2.
Quarters: 28-21, 55-42, 78-57, 109-84.
