Converge FiberXers coach Delta Pineda sees only positive things from the recent Gilas Pilipinas call-ups of two of his key players—Juan Gomez De Liaño and Justine Baltazar. That is especially true given the quality of opposition they faced in the third window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
“Malaking bagay ‘yung confidence na ibibigay nila sa team. ‘Yung kumpiyansa nila doon sa na-experience nila doon sa dalawang matinding laban against Australia and New Zealand,” Pineda said about Baltazar’s and JGDL’s recent third window experience. “Malaking bagay ‘yan para sa Team Converge.”
Team Converge welcomed Baltazar and Gomez De Liaño on Sunday with a rousing 105-74 blowout of the Titan Ultra Giant Risers to open the PBA Governors’ Cup on a winning note. JGDL, who put up 10.0 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in the third window, scored only 2 points but did everything else with aplomb, spiking his night with 9 rebounds and 9 assists. Baltazar, meanwhile, added 6 markers and 10 boards.
Pineda Hopes Converge Big Man Justin Arana Gets His Call
After seeing two of his stalwarts make the most of their Gilas Pilipinas call-up, Pineda is now hoping that another one of his wards, Justin Arana, gets his own opportunity to play for the national team.
“If Arana will be on the next window, sana suwertihin kung magkaroon ng option. Imagine ‘yung three guys ng Converge magsama-sama sa international league. Malaking bagay ‘yun,” said Pineda on the prospect of Arana, Gomez De Liaño, and Baltazar all wearing the Philippines on their chest in an international setting.
On Sunday, the 6-foot-7 Arana delivered a workmanlike performance of 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists in 30 minutes. It was, at least by Arana’s standards, a modest stat line, as he has shown time and again that he can post big numbers if needed. Neither he, JGDL, nor Baltazar needed to do any heavy lifting against the importless Giant Risers—but best believe they will when the need arises.
And that is why Pineda’s dream might someday come true. For now, count on Baltazar and JGDL to embolden Converge throughout this conference.
