Converge def Magnolia, 111-109 [PBA S47 Govs’ Cup | Jan. 29, 2023]

Their work is admittedly cut out for both Converge and Magnolia when they collide Sunday in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

The FiberXers are gunning for a third win in as many games while the Hotshots are looking to open up their campaign on a high note after a semifinals stint in the last Commissioner’s Cup.

The protagonists have a general idea of how to hit their respective target.

Converge averaged 126 points and an average winning margin of 22.5 points in its victories over NorthPort and Terrafirma but FiberXers coach Aldin Ayo opined that the match versus Magnolia would largely hinge on the defensive end.

“Initially it will be their defense against our offense, but we really have to work on our defense para magkaroon kami ng chance sa Sunday,” said Ayo following his team’s 130-115 win over the Dyip last Thursday.

“Question para sa amin kung paano namin ma-di-disrupt offensive schemes nila, ‘yung kanilang system. Three points, fastbreak points, and also ‘yung high-scoring import together with their locals,” said Magnolia coach Chito Victolero. “High-octane offense ‘yung kanila so it’s going to be a battle of their offense and our defense.”

Stifling Converge import Jamaal Franklin should indeed be a priority for Magnolia. In his first game as replacement for original reinforcement Ethan Rusbatch, the former NBA campaigner boomed in seven triples enroute to a 42-point, 11-rebound, eight-assist performance.