Converge import Scotty Hopson in the PBA Governors’ Cup.–PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines–Converge got its campaign under a new leadership and even without top overall pick Justine Baltazar off and running after blowing past new-look Terrafirma, 127-95, Wednesday in Group A of the PBA Governors’ Cup at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Import Scotty Hopson erupted for 46 points, including a perfect three of three from the four-point line, as the FiberXers won under acting coach Franco Atienza, active consultant Rajko Toroman and assistant Charles Tiu.
Alec Stockton added 21 points, 13 in the third quarter where he and Hopson conspired in creating separation from Terrafirma after a 53-49 lead at the break, and led by 33 at one point during the second half.
SCHEDULE: 2024 PBA Governors’ Cup elimination round
The FiberXers share the provisional lead in the group with last season’s Philippine Cup winner Meralco Bolts and defending champion TNT Tropang Giga.
Schonny Winston had 14 points,m six rebounds, four assists and two steals and Justin Arana added 13 points, six rebounds and five assists.
Terrafirma’s defeat spoiled the debuts of Christian Standhardinger and Stanley Pringle, who were acquired from Barangay Ginebra in exchange for younger pieces Stephen Holt and Isaac Go, among others.
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Pringle dropped 19 points, plus two from the four-point spot, with four rebounds and seven assists while Standhardinger posted 17 points and six rebounds.
Import Antonio Hester made 18 points, 10 rebounds and four assists in his PBA return after replacing Brandon Edwards following his ACL injury during the preseason buildup.