NLEX holds off Terrafirma brink; Converge steamrolls Titan Ultra in PBA Governors’ Cup

Shenel Sheina Castillo

NLEX and Converge opened their respective 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup campaigns with victories after escaping Terrafirma and routing Titan Ultra, respectively, at the Ynares Center Montalban, Rizal, July 12. 

The Road Warriors withstood a furious comeback from the Terrafirma Dyip to escape with a 101–100 victory and remain unbeaten.

After dictating the pace for three quarters of the game, NLEX looked firmly in control with a 23 point lead, seemingly putting the game to Terrafirma.

Terrafirma, however, had other plans.

The trio Maverick Ahansimi, Juami Tiongson, and import Justin Strings fueled Terrafirma with just one point behind with 42.7 seconds left, 30–11.

NLEX almost gave away after missed chances of Xyrus Torres and Robert Bolick, but their defense stood its ground and prevented Tiongson and String from scoring at the buzzer. 

Despite the close call, NLEX remained unbeaten behind Daequan Jones with 30 points, while Schonny Winston added 12 despite the late scare.

After surviving Terrafirma’s furious comeback in the fourth quarter, NLEX continued its strong start with another statement of victory. 

Converge routs Titan Ultra in 31-point Governors’ cup opener

Converge FiberXers wasted no time making a statement, coasting past Titan Ultra Giant Riser, 105–74.

The FiberXers seized control and never looked back, overwhelming the Giant Risers by a 50–26 half time lead.

However, things continue to unravel for the Giant Risers.

The Giant Risers missed all of their 17 three-points attempts in the first half, delivering offensive woes that played right into Converge’s hand.

Brian Sajonia finally got Titan Ultra on the board with a four-pointer, but the Giant Risers continued to struggle from wire to wire.

Returning import Jared Hudson made an immediate impact for the FiberXers, tallying 20 points, eight rebounds, four assist, and four steals

With the dominant victory, Converge opened their Governors’ cup campaign on a high note, sending an early message that it intends to be a serious contender this conference.