Converge routs Macau, extends win streak; Blackwater downs Magnolia in PBA Governors’ Cup

Rogelio Sambillon

Converge FiberXers and the Blackwater Bossing continued their winning ways with victories over Macau and Magnolia, respectively, in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup at Ninoy Aquino Stadium, July 17.

The FiberXers turned back the Macau Giant Pandas’ comeback attempt, cruising to a 149–124 victory for their third straight win.

Macau’s woes deepened early in the second quarter after Damian Chongqui was ejected for throwing the ball at a referee, resulting in a disqualifying foul.

Taking advantage of Macau’s foul trouble, Justin Arana spearheaded the FiberXers’ offense to help Converge build a 67–61 halftime lead.

The Giant Pandas fought back behind De’Vondre Perry and Ramon Cao, who helped knot the score at 86–86 midway through the third quarter.

Converge quickly regained control as Arana, Alec Stockton and Juan Gerardo Gomez de Liaño relentlessly attacked the paint, fueling a decisive run that put the game out of reach.

Arana finished with a career-high 39 points and 12 rebounds to lead the FiberXers.

Converge will look to extend its winning streak against San Miguel on July 22 at Ynares Center in Antipolo, while Macau seeks its first win against TNT on July 19 at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Blackwater edges Magnolia

The Blackwater Bossing secured back-to-back victories after defeating the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots, 89–81.

The two teams traded baskets throughout the first three quarters, with neither side able to build a comfortable lead.

Magnolia’s foul trouble proved costly in the fourth quarter, allowing Blackwater to capitalize from the free-throw line.

Despite Kenyon Joseph Buffen tying the game at 79–79 with 4:44 remaining, Blackwater responded with a decisive 10–0 run behind Kentrell Barkley, who scored eight points during the stretch.

Barkley finished with 26 points and 11 rebounds to power Blackwater to its second win of the conference.

Blackwater returns to action against Meralco on July 21 at Ynares Center in Antipolo, while Magnolia faces the Bolts on July 24 at Smart Araneta Coliseum.