WATCH: Magnolia vs Converge Game Highlights [PBA S49 Govs’ Cup | Aug. 23, 2024]

Magnolia delivered a decisive reality check to Converge, securing a commanding 105-93 victory in Group A of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday, Aug. 23.

The Hotshots showcased their defensive prowess, effectively stifling the FiberXers, who had previously exploded for 127 points in their opening game. This time, Converge’s star players, Justin Arana and Alec Stockton, were held significantly below their scoring averages.

Taking full advantage of this defensive clampdown, Magnolia built a lead that swelled to 21 points. In the game’s closing moments, they executed crucial stops to thwart a determined comeback attempt from Converge, ultimately fueling a strong 7-0 finish.

Glenn Robinson III spearheaded the offense for Magnolia, netting 28 points, while Paul Lee contributed 14 points and seven assists. Ian Sangalang also added 14 points, and Jerrick Ahanmisi emerged as an impactful four-point shooter, tallying 14 points, including three four-point plays—two of which came back-to-back in the opening frame.

The Hotshots appeared to be cruising comfortably with an 89-68 lead when the FiberXers, sparked by Kevin Racal’s hot shooting, ignited a fierce rally, orchestrating a 25-9 run that pulled them within striking distance at 98-93 with under two minutes remaining.

However, Magnolia regained their composure just in time, tightening their defensive grip, which culminated in a pivotal five-point swing as Sangalang and Mark Barroca delivered crucial shots. A final basket from Robinson III sealed the victory, placing Magnolia in a four-way tie at 1-1 in the Group A standings alongside Meralco, Converge, and NorthPort. TNT held the early advantage with a perfect 2-0 record, while Terrafirma found themselves as the only winless team at 0-2.

Scotty Hopson followed up his explosive 46-point debut with a solid 26 points, along with eight rebounds and five assists, but he struggled to find adequate support from his teammates. Racal provided some offensive firepower with 17 points, including nine in the final quarter, but it wasn’t enough to compensate for the off night experienced by Arana and Stockton.

Arana managed just 10 points and five rebounds while committing five turnovers, and Stockton was limited to a mere three points, hampered by foul trouble throughout the match.