The Converge FiberXers look determined to rise to the level of championship contender as fast as they can. In fact, they’ve been wheeling and dealing to improve an already talented roster led by Justin Arana and Juan Gomez de Liaño. In their latest trade, Purple Nation acquired guard James Kwekuteye from the Phoenix Fuel Masters in exchange for Tony Ynot, the FiberXers’ third-round pick in the 2025 PBA Draft.
Converge Gets Added Firepower, Depth
Converge lost some depth and firepower when it dealt Schonny Winston and Kevin Racal to acquire Jonnel Policarpio in the FiberXers’ second blockbuster deal ahead of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. The FiberXers got back some of what they lost with the acquisition of Kwekuteye, who averaged 6.6 points in his first 2 seasons in the PBA while shooting 35% from the arc in his sophomore year. While his numbers aren’t eye-popping, Kwekuteye is actually a decent three-level scorer who could excel in an off-the-bench role as the eighth or ninth man.
Phoenix Reunites Tony Ynot with Charles Tiu
While Converge has been busy reloading with talent, Phoenix seems to be building from scratch after letting go of nearly half its roster following the signing of Charles Tiu. In getting Ynot, the Fuel Masters will be reuniting their new coach with his former ward at Benilde in the NCAA. Ynot, though, isn’t just some player. He was one of Tiu’s most trusted players and someone whom he once described as “my best guard.”
Grade the Trade
Converge FiberXers: B–
James Kwekuteye won’t have to do much in Converge, as he’ll likely be asked to be a catch-and-shoot, off-the-bench spark and defender to offset the departures of Winston and Racal. It could be a role the former San Beda Red Lion could excel at, as Archie Concepcion did in the PBA Philippine Cup. If not, Converge didn’t give up any of its core pieces anyway.
Phoenix Fuel Masters: C+
Tony Ynot hasn’t made his PBA debut yet, but he will do so under the guidance of someone who trusts him unequivocally. That should bode well for his confidence, and he will likely get plenty of opportunities to prove he belongs in the big league. If Ynot plays to his potential, there’s a chance Phoenix comes out the winner in this trade.
