Converge’s David Murrell. –PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines–Converge kept its playoff hopes alive on Thursday night after taking down NLEX, 112-108, in the 2022 PBA Philippine Cup at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
The FiberXers used a 10-0 run to open the fourth quarter and take control of the contest helping the club arrest a two-game slide and stay in the hunt for a spot in the quarterfinals.
“Just being able to bounce back from two tough losses is really hard. You have to come in with your perspective on point,” said Jeff Cariaso, whose charges improved to 3-5.
“Guys came out focused and I want to attribute that to the focus and the energy they brought to practice this week. It really carries over and it showed tonight, so I’m glad that we were able—at least with this test—to pass tonight,” he added.
Dave Murrell finished with a career-high 21 points, Tyrus Hill 18 while Justin Arana 11. That same trio greased Converge’s fourth quarter that proved too much for NLEX, which slid to 4-4.
Taylor Browne chipped in 15 as Maverick Ahanmisi 10 more for a morale-restoring win that should prime Converge against skidding NorthPort (2-5) which it plays this Saturday.
“The way we look at it, this is the last stretch of the eliminations and at this point, regardless of our record, we still control our own destiny,” said Cariaso.
Kris Rosales had a career-best 29 points, while Kevin Alas 23 and Don Trollano 18 for the Road Warriors who will try to rebound against 1-6 Rain or Shine also on Saturday.
The Scores:
CONVERGE 112 – Murrell 21, Hill 18, Browne 15, Arana 11, Ahanmisi 10, Adamos 9, Tratter 8, Ambohot 7, Bulanadi 4, DiGregorio 3, Racal 3, Ilagan 3, Tolomia 0, Stockton 0
NLEX 108 – Rosales 29, Alas 23, Trollano 18, Chua 15, Oftana 12, Quinahan 4,Paniamogan 3, Fonacier 2, Magat 2, Semerad 0, Soyud 0, Ighalo 0
Quarterscores: 19-15, 46-38, 77-76, 112-108.