Converge delivers towering performance to stun TNT and stretch PBA 2025 streak

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Converge PBA Philippine Cup 2025 campaign took another electrifying leap forward as the FiberXers banked on the towering performances of Justine Baltazar and Justin Arana to pull off a stunning 100-94 upset over TNT Tropang Giga at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo on Sunday.

The young frontcourt duo exploded with massive double-double games, with Baltazar firing 21 points and grabbing 12 rebounds and Arana delivering 22 points and 11 boards. Their power plays proved too much for the struggling TNT side, allowing Converge to secure its second straight victory and climb to a 3-2 record.

Coach Franco Atienza praised his young squad’s grit, especially in surviving TNT’s ferocious rally that trimmed a 22-point lead down to six by the fourth quarter.

“For a young team like ours, winning a close game like this is huge,” said Atienza. “It tests how we handle adversity, and I’m proud we pulled through.”

Justine Baltazar powers Converge with a commanding double-double to stun TNT at the PBA Philippine Cup 2025. [PBA Images]

Schonny Winston and Alec Stockton each chipped in 19 points, showcasing Converge’s depth and balance on both ends of the floor.

TNT, still adjusting without import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, dropped to a 0-2 start after a heartbreaking loss to NLEX and now to Converge. Calvin Oftana led the charge with a career-high 33 points but could not rescue the Tropang Giga from another setback.

Baltazar, named Best Player of the Game, sizzled in the second half, shooting 7-of-9 from the field and hitting 7-of-8 free throws to maintain Converge’s edge when it mattered most.

“We knew TNT is a strong team, so we had to be aggressive and outrun them,” Baltazar said.

The FiberXers’ young guns played fearlessly, negating Oftana’s heroics and keeping TNT’s veterans like Poy Erram and Kelly Williams at bay.

Coach Chot Reyes’ attempt to play small ball in the final minutes could not derail Converge’s composed finish, as the FiberXers delivered another signature win that further cements their growing reputation as serious threats this conference.

With Rain or Shine next on their schedule, Converge looks determined to ride their momentum to greater heights.