The Converge FiberXers wasted no time bouncing back from their heartbreaking finish in the previous conference, pulling off a strong comeback to defeat the Macau Black Knights, 102-94, in the opening game of the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Wednesday, March 11, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Converge leaned on a late 14-2 finishing run to secure the victory after seeing an earlier 13-point lead disappear. The surge allowed the FiberXers to spoil the debut of the Black Knights, who entered the midseason tournament as a guest team.

The FiberXers were eager to start the conference on a positive note following their painful exit in the Philippine Cup. Converge previously held a twice-to-beat advantage before falling to the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in the quarterfinals.

Stockton sparks late Converge surge

Alec Stockton delivered an outstanding all-around performance to lead the FiberXers. The guard finished with 18 points, six steals, three rebounds and three assists to earn Best Player of the Game honors.

Stockton also figured in a heated backcourt duel with Damian Chongqui of Macau. The Converge guard ultimately came out on top after scoring two crucial baskets during the closing run and sealing the win with a late steal against Chongqui.

Chongqui still turned in an impressive effort for the Black Knights with 19 points, seven assists and five rebounds. However, his four turnovers proved costly as Converge capitalized late in the contest.

Balanced FiberXers attack seals win

Import Kylor Kelley provided a strong inside presence with a double-double of 12 points and 19 rebounds. Justine Baltazar also posted a double-double with 14 points and 10 boards to help anchor the FiberXers’ frontcourt.

Archie Concepcion, Justin Arana and Jonnel Policarpio each contributed at least 13 points as Converge relied on a balanced scoring effort. Their production helped keep the FiberXers within striking distance before the decisive fourth-quarter run.

New acquisition Mikee Williams played only in the final period but still contributed three assists, two rebounds and a steal despite missing all four of his field goal attempts.

For Macau, returning PBA import Tony Mitchell added 18 points and 10 rebounds to support Chongqui. The Black Knights even surged ahead 92-88 late in the fourth quarter before Converge ignited a 14-0 run that completely shifted the momentum.

Macau was held scoreless for more than five minutes during that stretch, finally ending the drought with a basket in the closing seconds after the outcome had already been decided.