The Converge FiberXers closed out their PBA Commissioner’s Cup run with a 136-122 victory over the Blackwater Bossing on Saturday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The win gave Converge a 5-7 record—ninth place overall and just outside the playoff bracket—while Blackwater absorbed its 10th loss in 12 outings to finish at the bottom of the 13-team field.
What Happened?
Blackwater came out firing, riding Robert Upshaw III’s hot hand to an 8-0 start and a 29-24 lead after the opening quarter. But Converge quickly found its rhythm, outscoring the Bossing 35-29 in the second frame to take a slim 59-58 halftime edge.
The FiberXers then broke the game open in the third, pouring in 30 points while holding Blackwater to 22. By the time the final buzzer sounded, Converge had built leads as large as 126-107, fueled by transition play and bench production.
Who Stood Out?
Juan Gomez de Liaño spearheaded Converge’s balanced attack with 25 points, while Justin Arana and Donovan Smith each chipped in double figures as starters. The bench was equally potent, with Justine Baltazar, Mike Garcia, Calvin Abueva, Archie Concepcion, and others combining for 77 points.
Upshaw was sensational for Blackwater despite the loss, finishing with 45 points and 18 rebounds. Sedrick Barefield added 20 points, and Abu Tratter contributed 13 points and 7 boards, though his 5 turnovers were costly.
3 Keys to the Game
- Turnover battle. Converge forced 22 Blackwater miscues and converted them into 23 points, compared to just 4 for the Bossing. That swing proved decisive.
- Fastbreak dominance. The FiberXers ran relentlessly, outscoring Blackwater 38-5 in transition. Gomez de Liano and company thrived in the open floor.
- Bench production. Converge’s reserves overwhelmed Blackwater’s second unit, 77-34, giving the FiberXers sustained firepower across all four quarters.
Next Up for the PBA
Sunday, May 10, 2026 | SM Mall of Asia Arena
Meralco Bolts vs. Magnolia Hotshots (5:15 p.m.)
Barangay Ginebra San Miguel vs. TNT Tropang 5G (7:30 p.m.)
