PBA: Cheick Diallo good as advertised in Converge debut

Converge import Cheick Diallo dunks against Terrafirma.–PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Converge coach Franco Atienza had plenty of reasons to feel good about his team following an opening victory over Terrafirma in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Wednesday at Philsports Arena.

Aside from hammering out a 116-97 beatdown of the Dyip, the FiberXers also drew a stellar PBA debut from its import Cheick Diallo.

“He’s very impressive,” said a beaming Atienza of the former NBA player.

READ: PBA: Converge pounces on shorthanded Terrafirma

“When we got Chieck, we knew we were getting a high-motor and athletic guy. What we saw now is what we expected him to play like.”

Diallo, who had stints with the New Orleans Pelicans, Phoenix Suns and Detroit Pistons in the NBA, dropped a double-double of 25 points and 16 rebounds on top of two assists, a steal and a block.

The 28-year-old big man played an efficient game shooting 11-of-13 from the field in 32 minutes of action.

Atienza was also impressed with Diallo’s character.

READ: Jordan Heading finally headed to PBA to play for Converge

“Whenever you scout imports, you could scout their skills and shooting but one thing you can’t scout is character. That’s one of the things we’re lucky about with CD,” Atienza said.

“Some are great, skillsets are at a 10 out of 10 but their character is questionable. What we like about CD is he has great character. He knows how to get along with the guys, he talks to our young players and shares his experiences in the NBA.”

Diallo and the FiberXers take on guest team Eastern Hong Kong next on Friday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.