PBA: Converge aims for breakthrough under new coach

Converge FiberXers boost their roster by selecting Juan Gomez de Liaño in the PBA Rookie Draft.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines–Dennis “Delta” Pineda said he will need all the help he can after being designated as the new head coach of the Converge FiberXers.

Pineda is going to lean on his coaching staff that includes his predecessor Franco Atienza along with former Gilas Pilipinas mentor Rajko Toroman and fellow Serbian Djordje Jovicic for guidance as the FiberXers aim for a breakthrough semifinal appearance in the league’s 50th season.

READ: PBA: Juan Gomez de Liaño won’t let Converge regret picking him

“We got a good team with a healthy working relationship that focuses solely on helping each other out,” the Pampanga vice governor said in Filipino after Sunday’s Rookie Draft held at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

Atienza, who called the shots last season, will remain with Converge as part of the staff that also has Willie Miller, Chico Manabat, Manny Dandan and Karl Santos, among others.

Toroman is returning as consultant after handling the role for two conferences last season while Jovicic is currently part of the Pampanga Lanterns in the MPBL.

READ: PBA: Converge eyes better rookie fit using Phoenix’s No. 2 pick

The head coaching position comes after Pineda has been involved with Converge since its entry to the league in 2022, albeit in an unspecified role.

The FiberXers used the second pick acquired from the Phoenix Fuel Masters to select Juan Gomez de Liano, who now joins a talented core composed of Justine Baltazar, Justin Arana, Alec Stockton and Schonny Winston.

Converge also acquired the rights to Larry Muyang from Phoenix in a three-team trade that also involved NorthPort.