Gomez de Liano Drops 32 as Converge Defeates Ginebra, 106–96
Juan Gomez de Liano delivered the biggest performance of his young PBA career, powering the Converge FiberXers to a commanding 106–96 victory over Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup on Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Gomez de Liano was unstoppable from start to finish. The former UP standout erupted for a career-high 32 points, shooting an ultra-efficient 13-of-16 from the field, while also tallying six rebounds and six assists.
His brilliant outing paved the way for one of Converge’s most impressive wins of the conference — and it came with his family in attendance, adding to the night’s significance.
Balanced Converge Attack Helps Seal Statement Win
Schonny Winston continued his strong run, firing 21 points off the bench alongside six rebounds and four assists. Converge’s twin towers also made their presence felt:
- Justin Arana: 13 points, 13 rebounds, four assists, 1 steal, 1 block
- Justine Baltazar: 12 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 block
The FiberXers turned a tight game into a breakthrough win. After Troy Rosario brought Ginebra within three, 94–91, Converge responded with a decisive 10–0 finishing run. Winston, Arana, and Gomez de Liano fueled the late surge that pushed Converge ahead, 104–91, with just 33 seconds remaining.
From a 72-all tie entering the fourth quarter, the FiberXers outscored the Gin Kings 34–24 to take full control.
With the victory, Converge improved to 5–2, creating a five-way tie for second place with Magnolia, NLEX, San Miguel, and Rain or Shine. Only TNT holds a better slate at 5–1.
(Video from the YouTube Channel of One Sports)
Ginebra Falls to 2–4
Ginebra continued its rocky campaign, dropping to 2–4 after failing to keep pace with Converge’s youthful firepower.
- Stephen Holt: 24 points, 5 assists, 2 steals, 1 rebound
- RJ Abarrientos: 24 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals
Despite strong individual outputs, the Gin Kings couldn’t contain Converge’s balanced offense and late-game execution.
What’s Next
- Converge FiberXers aim to keep rolling when they face the Magnolia Hotshots on December 5.
- Barangay Ginebra looks to bounce back against the Phoenix Fuel Masters on November 16.
The Scores:
Converge 106 – Gomez de Liano 32, Winston 21, Arana 13, Baltazar 12, Stockton 9, Concepcion 6, Garcia 4, Muyang 3, Javillonar 2, Delos Santos 2, Racal 2, Caralipio 0, Clemente 0, Santos 0, Eguilos 0.
Ginebra 96 – Holt 24, Abarrientos 24, Thompson 10, David 10, J. Aguilar 7, Gray 7, Cu 6, Rosario 6, Torres 2, R. Aguilar 0.
Quarter Scores: 26-24, 54-49, 72-72, 106-96
