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FiberXers Pound Painters, 130-118, to Draw First Blood in PBA Commissioner’s Cup Quarterfinals
On Wednesday, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, FiberXers Pound Painters, winning 130-118 in the opening game of their best-of-three PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinal series. With six players scoring in double digits, the FiberXers showcased their depth and dominance, particularly after Rain or Shine’s import Deon Thompson fouled out in the third quarter. This game was a high-scoring spectacle that saw Converge maintain control despite an early deficit.
The Battle Unfolds: Converge’s Strong Start– FiberXers Pound Painters
The game began with an intense pace, and Rain or Shine initially looked like they were in control. They surged to a 17-point lead in the first quarter, making it seem like they would dominate the game. However, the FiberXers were determined to fight back. They slowly chipped away at the deficit, showing resilience and quick execution on offense.
As the first quarter ended, Converge began to find their rhythm, and their defensive play picked up, allowing them to make critical stops. By the second quarter, Converge had managed to erase the deficit, overtaking Rain or Shine, much to the delight of their supporters.
The Impact of Deon Thompson’s Early Exit
One of the most significant turning points of the game came in the third quarter, when Rain or Shine’s import, Deon Thompson, fouled out. Thompson had been a key factor for the Elasto Painters, contributing heavily on both ends of the floor. However, his absence opened up the game for Converge, who seized the opportunity to push the pace and take control of the match.
Cheick Diallo, Converge’s standout player, capitalized on Thompson’s absence. Diallo was everywhere on the floor, putting up an impressive 35 points, 17 rebounds, three assists, and three blocks. His dominance in the paint, combined with his scoring ability, made him a constant problem for Rain or Shine’s defense.
Converge’s Big Run in the Fourth Quarter
The game was tight, with Converge holding a slim 105-104 lead with about 10 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. Adrian Nocum had just hit an and-one play to bring the Painters within one point. However, Converge immediately responded with a seven-point burst, pushing their lead to 112-104.
Rain or Shine briefly cut the lead to six with a jumper from Keith Datu, but that would be as close as they would get. Converge unleashed a backbreaking 12-2 run, capped off by a thunderous dunk from Justine Baltazar, which pushed the FiberXers’ lead to 122-108 with just 3:50 left in the game.
Despite a valiant effort from Rain or Shine’s Caelan Tiongson, who scored 23 points and grabbed three rebounds, it was clear that Converge had taken full control of the game. Tiongson, along with Adrian Nocum and Anton Asistio (both contributing 14 points each), kept the Painters within reach, but Converge’s explosive run and free-throw shooting ultimately sealed the game, that results to FiberXers Pound Painters.
Key Contributions from Converge Players
- Cheick Diallo led the charge for Converge with 35 points and 17 rebounds. His performance in both scoring and rebounding was crucial in securing the victory.
- Justin Arana came off the bench to provide a strong 21 points and nine rebounds, demonstrating Converge’s depth.
- Jordan Heading was also a key contributor, scoring 21 points, with nine assists, three rebounds, and two blocks.
- Schonny Winston, who had 17 points, and Justine Baltazar, who added 13 points, played critical roles in the team’s decisive run in the fourth quarter.
- Alec Stockton also contributed 13 points, showing that Converge was firing on all cylinders.
Rain or Shine’s Fightback and Challenges
Rain or Shine’s hopes were dashed after Thompson’s early exit. His absence left the Elasto Painters struggling for an answer to Converge’s dominant frontcourt. Despite Tiongson’s strong performance, and contributions from Nocum and Asistio, the Painters lacked the firepower needed to match Converge’s balanced attack.
While Rain or Shine showed resilience throughout, even leading by as much as 17 points early on, they couldn’t withstand Converge’s depth and their explosive performance in the final quarter. The FiberXers capitalized on their opponent’s lack of depth in key positions, particularly after Thompson’s departure.
Looking Ahead: Game 2 of FiberXers Pound Painters
The victory gives Converge a crucial 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series. They now look ahead to Game 2 on Friday, which will take place at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila. Converge will be aiming to close out the series and advance to the semifinals, while Rain or Shine will need to bounce back and force a Game 3 if they hope to keep their championship hopes alive.
Conclusion: the FiberXers Pound Painters
Converge’s dominant 130-118 victory over Rain or Shine in Game 1 of their quarterfinal series is a testament to their depth, resilience, and ability to capitalize on opportunities. With a strong showing from key players like Cheick Diallo, Justin Arana, and Jordan Heading, Converge has proven they are a team to be reckoned with in the 2025 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. If they continue to play at this level, the FiberXers may just find themselves advancing to the semifinals with another win in Game 2.
FAQs
Q: When is Game 2 of the FiberXers Pound Painters quarterfinals series?
A: Game 2 will be held on Friday, February 9, 2025, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila at 7:30 p.m.
Q: How many players scored in double digits for Converge?
A: Six players from Converge scored in double digits during the game.
Q: What was the key turning point in the game?
A: The key turning point was the foul-out of Rain or Shine’s import Deon Thompson in the third quarter, which allowed Converge to gain control of the game.
Disclaimer
This article: FiberXers Pound Painters to Reach Semis – Big Win this 2025! is based on reports from reliable sources covering the February 5, 2025, game between Converge and Rain or Shine in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. All statistics and details were accurate at the time of publication. For official updates and live game results, please refer to PBA’s official website and news channels.
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