Converge wasted little time searching for answers after suffering its first setback of the PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup, turning to a familiar face in hopes of keeping its strong start on track.
The FiberXers have officially replaced import Jalen Hudson with returning reinforcement Jamaal Franklin, bringing back one of the franchise’s most productive imports ahead of Tuesday’s showdown against TNT at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The team confirmed the move through its official social media post.
“Welcome Back, Jamaal Franklin!”
The roster change comes after Hudson’s brief four-game stint with Converge. Although he showed flashes of his scoring ability, the former import struggled to find consistency throughout the conference.
Hudson averaged 12.25 points, 6.75 rebounds, and 4.25 assists before being released by the FiberXers.
He made an encouraging debut by tallying 20 points, eight rebounds, and four assists against Titan Ultra, but his production steadily declined over the next few games, highlighted by a two-point outing against Terrafirma.
With Converge sitting at 3-1 and third in the Group A standings following its first loss of the conference to the San Miguel Beermen, management opted to make a change before the tournament reaches its crucial stretch.
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That decision brings Franklin back to a team where he previously thrived wherein the high-scoring forward last suited up for Converge during the 2023 conference, producing outstanding averages of 34.0 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game.
Behind his all-around brilliance, the FiberXers compiled a 6-5 record to secure seventh place in the elimination round before bowing out in the quarterfinals.
Franklin’s return also restores an import known for his ability to impact every facet of the game rather than simply carrying the scoring load.
Before establishing himself as one of the most accomplished imports to play in Asia, Franklin was selected 41st overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2013 NBA Draft. Although he never played in an NBA regular-season game with Memphis, he developed in the NBA G League with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants before continuing his career in China with the Zhejiang Lions.
He later earned an NBA opportunity with the Denver Nuggets during the 2015-16 season before becoming a longtime standout in the Chinese Basketball Association beginning in 2017.
Franklin is expected to make his season debut for Converge when the FiberXers take on TNT on Tuesday, with the team hoping his familiarity with the system can provide an immediate spark as it looks to bounce back from its first defeat.
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