Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Tag: PBA Commissioner’s Cup

  • CJ Cansino shows no rust in win, earns praise from Meralco coach Luigi Trillo 

    There was no easing back in for CJ Cansino—only a statement, as he showed no signs of rust in his first game in two months in the PBA.

     

    In his return to action for the Meralco Bolts, Cansino delivered a near-flawless performance, finishing 8-of-9 from the field, including 3-of-4 from beyond the arc and a perfect 2-of-2 from four-point range, on his way to 23 points and eight assists. His all-around effort not only powered Meralco but also earned him Player of the Game honors.

     

    It was the kind of outing that immediately caught the attention of head coach Luigi Trillo, who emphasized the team’s collective showing while acknowledging his guard’s hot hand.

     

    “Compliments to Marvin, our import, he played well, CJ was on fire, New played well. Just overall, everybody that got fielded today was able to contribute,” said Trillo.

     

    For Cansino, the performance felt less like a comeback and more like a continuation. The last time he suited up for Meralco was during the East Asia Super League do-or-die clash against the Ryukyu Golden Kings, where he contributed seven points in a lineup anchored by imports Ismael Romero and Justin Brownlee.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    His previous PBA appearance came even earlier—during the semifinals of the PBA Philippine Cup on January 14, 2026—when he erupted for a career-high 36 points in a losing effort against the TNT Tropang 5G.

     

    That stretch underscored his growing importance to the squad, as he averaged 18.5 points, four rebounds, and nearly two assists per game, establishing himself as one of the Bolts’ most dependable scoring options.

     

    Any concerns about rhythm or timing quickly disappeared. Cansino looked comfortable, decisive, and in full control—whether attacking the rim, knocking down perimeter shots, or creating opportunities for teammates.

     

    More importantly, his return adds another layer to a Meralco side looking to build momentum early in the conference. With contributions coming from across the roster and Cansino picking up right where he left off, the Bolts may have found a key piece ready to elevate their campaign.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

     📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!  

  • Juan Gomez de Liano eyes quick return amid Converge’s slow start

    Juan Gomez de Liano eyes quick return amid Converge’s slow start

    For the Converge FiberXers, the process has come with unexpected complications.


    Instead of simply refining rotations and building chemistry, Converge is being forced to adapt without key pieces, most notably Juan Gomez de Liano, who remains sidelined with a knee injury.

     

    The absence has added another layer of difficulty for a team still trying to establish rhythm in the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    The injury, sustained during their previous outing against the Terrafirma Dyip and has left Gomez de Liano in a holding pattern. After undergoing an MRI, the 26-year-old guard is hoping for positive news—and a quick return.

     

    “I hurt my knee last game, natamaan, knee to knee. That’s pretty much the same. Kinda a bit swollen, so hopefully it heals by itself, and hopefully mabilis,” the lefty guard said.

     

    But beyond the physical setback, it’s the inability to contribute that weighs heavier. As Converge slipped to a 1-2 record, Gomez de Liano could only watch from the sidelines, an unfamiliar position for one of the team’s primary creators.

     

    “I really wanted to be out there with the guys and just kinda help them, pero injuries are out of my control,” he said.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    His absence is particularly felt in matchups that demand backcourt firepower, especially against players like CJ Cansino, a familiar rival dating back to their UAAP days.

     

    Still, inside the Converge camp, there is a sense of patience rather than panic. With the conference still young—and with reinforcements on the way in Calvin Abueva—the team is choosing to view early losses as part of a longer process.

     

    “It’s just a matter of time to build trust with one another and gain chemistry. I’m glad these two losses happened early in the conference,” he said. “We just have to continue to build up and work together … we just have to be patient,” the 26-year-old added.

     

    For Gomez de Liano, the focus now shifts entirely to recovery. A demanding offseason that included duties with Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers may have contributed to the wear and tear, making rest just as critical as rehab.

     

    “I’m gonna just attack rehab, just allow it to heal, I’ll just catch up on some rest. Kasi tuluy-tuloy rin ‘yung mga ganap sa akin like with the training, Gilas, and I feel like overfatigued lang. Hopefully, makabalik na ako,” he added.

     

    Time, however, is a luxury Converge can’t fully afford. A looming matchup against the San Miguel Beermen on March 25 presents another early measuring stick, one the FiberXers hope to face at full strength.

     

    Whether Gomez de Liano suits up or not, his presence on or off the floor remains central to a team still trying to find its footing.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • Meralco marks milestone win as Terrafirma builds early momentum in PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    Meralco marks milestone win as Terrafirma builds early momentum in PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    The spotlight at the Ynares Center on Wednesday became a night of statements and emerging storylines in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.


    For the Meralco Bolts, the evening doubled as both a strong season debut and a historic moment. Behind a commanding 109-88 victory over the Converge FiberXers, the Bolts not only showcased their depth but also reached a significant franchise milestone.

     

    Import Marvin Jones wasted no time making his presence felt, erupting for 29 points in an impressive first outing. His performance set the tone, but it was far from a one-man show. CJ Cansino delivered near-flawless shooting, finishing 8-of-9 from the field, including a perfect clip from four-point range—to tally 23 points and eight assists. 

     

    Meanwhile, veteran Chris Newsome added 19 points, anchoring the decisive fourth-quarter push that shut the door on Converge.

     

    The win carried added weight. Based on league statistician Fidel Mangonon III, it marked Meralco’s 300th victory as a franchise, placing the MVP Group-backed squad among the league’s most accomplished active teams.

     

    On the other side, Converge continues to search for rhythm early in the conference. The absence of Juan Gomez de Liano due to a knee injury loomed large, especially for a team still awaiting the debut of Calvin Abueva.

     

    Alec Stockton led the FiberXers with 18 points, while Justin Arana posted a double-double effort of 16 points and 11 rebounds. Import Kylor Kelley and Justine Baltazar also delivered inside presence, but the team fell to 1-2, still searching for cohesion.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    If Meralco celebrated history, Terrafirma Dyip continued crafting a promising present.

     

    Riding the momentum of a breakout performance in their previous game, Mubashar Ali once again anchored Terrafirma’s charge, finishing with a dominant 22-point, 23-rebound outing to power a 99-88 win over the Blackwater Bossing. His consistent production is quickly turning into one of the early tournament’s most compelling narratives.

     

    Support came in waves. Paolo Hernandez contributed 20 points in a Player of the Game performance, while Jerrick Ahanmisi added 18, highlighted by two four-point shots that helped keep Blackwater at bay.

     

    Blackwater, meanwhile, leaned heavily on Sedrick Barefield, who poured in 25 points. However, the limited mobility of import Daniel Ochefu, playing through a hyperextended knee restricted their interior presence, contributing to their second straight loss.

     

    Looking ahead, the Meralco Bolts will have over a week to regroup before facing the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on March 27 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The Converge FiberXers, meanwhile, face a tough test against the San Miguel Beermen on March 25, returning to the same Antipolo venue.

     

    The Blackwater Bossing aim to bounce back on Sunday against the Magnolia Hotshots, with the possible debut of import Robert Upshaw depending on Ochefu’s condition. Meanwhile, Terrafirma Dyip will try to sustain their surge when they take on the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters, coached by Charles Tiu, on March 25 in Antipolo.

     

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • San Miguel shares championship spirit through Walang Gutom outreach ahead of PBA return

    San Miguel shares championship spirit through Walang Gutom outreach ahead of PBA return

    Success for the San Miguel Beermen has long been measured in trophies, but on Tuesday, it was defined by something far more meaningful.

     

    Fresh off capturing their 31st title in the PBA Philippine Cup, the Beermen stepped away from the hardwood and into the community, lending their presence and resources to the government’s hunger alleviation efforts through the Walang Gutom Kitchen in Pasay City.

     

    Led by nine-time MVP June Mar Fajardo, the team brought its championship energy to the outreach, distributing packed meals and handing out simple gifts such as shirts and caps to beneficiaries. 

     

    Joining him were head coach Leo Austria, team governor Robert Non, and manager Gee Abanilla, reinforcing that the organization’s strength extends beyond its roster.

     

    The initiative also drew the presence of Willie Marcial, highlighting the league’s continued support for community-driven programs.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    The Walang Gutom Kitchen, a project spearheaded by Rex Gatchalian under the Department of Social Welfare and Development, was launched in 2024 as a grassroots food bank aimed at providing free, nutritious meals to the homeless and underserved. 

     

    For San Miguel, the outreach became a fitting way to celebrate its latest championship — not just by looking back, but by giving forward.

     

    The timing also signals a shift back to competition. With their title run now part of history, the Beermen are turning their focus to the upcoming PBA Commissioner’s Cup, where they will open their campaign against Titan Ultra at the Ynares Center.

     

    For a franchise built on winning, the message was clear: championships may define their legacy, but impact defines their purpose.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

     📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!  

  • New-look Meralco opens title push as Marvin Jones debuts, Terrafirma eyes 3-0 surge

    New-look Meralco opens title push as Marvin Jones debuts, Terrafirma eyes 3-0 surge

    A fresh chapter begins for the Meralco Bolts, and it comes with a new anchor in the middle. When the Bolts step onto the floor at the Ynares Center on Wednesday, they won’t just be opening their campaign in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup—they’ll be unveiling a retooled identity built around newly arrived import Marvin Jones.

     

    Jones, a seven-footer fresh off a FIBA Europe Cup title run, steps into the spotlight as Meralco’s latest reinforcement, tasked with steering a team that has long hovered on the brink of contention. His arrival follows the exit of Ismael Romero, whose stint ended under controversial circumstances after an incident overseas involving former PBA guard Nick Demusis.

     

    Now, the focus shifts forward. Jones brings with him a wealth of international experience, having played across Europe, and immediately becomes the centerpiece of Meralco’s bid to finally break through.

     

    But he won’t be alone in reshaping the Bolts’ look. The anticipated debut of playmaker Jason Brickman adds another layer of intrigue, while newly acquired wingman Javee Mocon provides versatility on both ends of the floor. Together, they form a revamped core that Meralco hopes can translate promise into results.

     

    Standing in their way is a Converge FiberXers side eager to reassert itself. Touted as one of the conference favorites, Converge enters the matchup looking to recover from a stunning 111-100 overtime defeat to the surging Terrafirma Dyip.

     

    That loss exposed cracks in a team that had opened its campaign with a convincing win over the Macau Black Knights, raising questions about consistency as the tournament begins to take shape.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Earlier in the day, Terrafirma aims to sustain its unlikely rise when it goes for a 3-0 start against the Blackwater Bossing. The Dyip have emerged as the early surprise of the conference, riding a wave of confidence that head coach Ronald Tubid traces back to their preparation.

     

    “Now we’re enjoying practice, we’re excited to practice, we’re doing good in practice it’s being translated to the games,” shared Tubid.

     

    Across the court, Blackwater is still searching for its footing after a narrow loss to the NLEX Road Warriors, hoping to avoid falling deeper into an early hole.

     

    As the doubleheader unfolds, the spotlight may be split between Meralco’s new beginning and Terrafirma’s unexpected surge—but both storylines point to the same truth: in a wide-open Commissioner’s Cup, momentum can shift quickly, and every game carries weight.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

     📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!  

  • Terrafirma chases historic 3-0 start as Dyip continue hot run in PBA

    Terrafirma chases historic 3-0 start as Dyip continue hot run in PBA

    The Terrafirma Dyip are making waves in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, chasing a historic 3-0 start that would mark the best opening stretch in franchise history. Their momentum is fueled by the extraordinary performances of import Mubashar Ali, whose 50-point, 25-rebound outburst against Converge FiberXers not only led the Dyip to an overtime thriller but also placed him among the league’s most dominant single-game performers.

     

    “Gutom kami,” said head coach Lawrence Tubid when asked about his team’s mindset heading into Wednesday’s clash against Blackwater Bossing at the Ynares Center. “Walang kompiyansa sa team na ito kasi hungry team na ito… Now we’re enjoying practice, we’re excited to practice, we’re doing good in practice so natra-translate na lang sa games iyon,” Tubid added.

     

    Terrafirma’s surge comes off a pair of wins that shocked the league, including their overtime victory over Converge, where Ali battled cramps to dominate the fourth quarter and extra session. 

     

    Six-foot-nine rookie Geo Chiu also contributed nine points and 13 rebounds, helping the Dyip withstand the FiberXers’ firepower. 

     

    Despite 17 points and 22 rebounds from seven-foot Kylor Kelley, Converge fell 111-100 in a game that highlighted Terrafirma’s resilience and teamwork.

     

    The Dyip have benefited from the consistency of Jerrick Ahanmisi, averaging 20 points, 6.5 assists, and 2.5 steals across their first two games. 

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Together with Ali, their performances have turned Terrafirma into an unlikely early leader, showcasing a mix of experience, athleticism, and hunger that Tubid says begins in practice.

     

    In contrast, Blackwater is still searching for rhythm after a close 81-84 defeat to NLEX Road Warriors, with coach Jeffrey Cariaso hoping import Daniel Ochefu and guard Sedrick Barefield can set the tone moving forward.

     

    As Terrafirma prepares to take on the Bossing, the Dyip remain focused on translating hard work and hunger into consistent results. “We’ll just do our job, sa practice. 

     

    Then makikita naman sa game iyon. Nag-i-start sa practice lahat,” Tubid said, underscoring a philosophy that has turned this underdog squad into one of the most talked-about teams in the early conference.

     

    If they succeed on Wednesday, Terrafirma will not only continue their record-setting start but also cement themselves as a legitimate contender in the midseason tournament, riding momentum that could define their PBA campaign.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

     📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!  

  • PBA admits missed backcourt call in Magnolia loss to NLEX

    PBA admits missed backcourt call in Magnolia loss to NLEX

    The Philippine Basketball Association has acknowledged a crucial officiating lapse that played a key role in shifting momentum during the Magnolia Hotshots’ 112-105 loss to the NLEX Road Warriors in the Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    In a game that was still up for grabs entering the fourth quarter, the league admitted a backcourt violation should have been called on Kevin Alas during a sequence that ultimately sparked a decisive NLEX run.

     

    With the score tied at 84-all and 10:55 remaining, Alas — already in the frontcourt and close to stepping out of bounds — passed the ball back to JB Bahio, who had not yet crossed midcourt. The play went uncalled, despite meeting the criteria for a backcourt violation.

     

    The missed infraction immediately drew protests from Magnolia’s bench, led by head coach LA Tenorio, who stepped onto the court to question the decision.

     

    Instead of a turnover, however, Magnolia was assessed a technical foul after Tenorio’s outburst.

    Alas converted the free throw, and on the ensuing possession, Tony Semerad buried a three-pointer — turning what could have been Magnolia possession into a four-point swing in favor of NLEX.

     

    From there, the Road Warriors seized control.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    The sequence broke the deadlock and gave NLEX an 88-84 lead, a cushion it would not relinquish as Magnolia was forced to chase the game the rest of the way.

     

    While the league’s admission confirmed what Magnolia had argued in real time, the ruling came too late to change the outcome.

     

    The loss dropped the Hotshots to 0-2 in the conference, marking their first winless start through two games in three seasons, or since the Season 47 Governors’ Cup.

     

    That campaign saw Magnolia recover from an 0-3 start behind a mid-conference import change, eventually finishing strong enough to reach the playoffs — a reminder that early setbacks are not always definitive.

     

    Still, this latest defeat carries added frustration. Beyond the result, it underscores how a single missed call — now officially acknowledged — can alter the course of a game.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

     📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!  

  • Phoenix stays perfect; NLEX rallies past Magnolia to remain unbeaten

    Phoenix stays perfect; NLEX rallies past Magnolia to remain unbeaten

    Two teams continued their early surge in the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup on Sunday as the Phoenix Fuel Masters and NLEX Road Warriors remained spotless following contrasting victories at the Ynares Center II in Montalban.

     

    Phoenix delivered the more dominant showing of the night, dismantling the Titan Ultra, 109-76, to stretch its winning start under coach Charles Tiu to two games.

     

    Unlike their tense opening win over Magnolia Hotshots just two days earlier, the Fuel Masters wasted little time asserting control. Phoenix raced to a 33-17 advantage in the opening period and never allowed Titan Ultra to seriously threaten afterward.

     

    The win also marked the franchise’s first 2-0 start in five years, dating back to the 2021-22 Governors’ Cup when former import Paul Harris powered the team.

     

    Phoenix once again relied on a balanced attack. Ricci Rivero led the charge with 18 points and nine rebounds, while also adding four assists and two steals.

     

    Import James Dickey III nearly produced a monster double-double with 17 points and 17 rebounds to go with six assists, four steals, and four blocks.

     

    Ken Tuffin added 17 points highlighted by three triples, while Evan Nelle contributed 14 points and eight assists.

     

    Bench contributions from Bryan Santos, who scored 13 points, helped Phoenix maintain control throughout the second half.

     

    Titan Ultra briefly showed signs of life in the third quarter, trimming the gap to 69-62 after a basket from Michael Gilmore with just over two minutes remaining in the period.

     

    But Phoenix quickly restored order. Kai Ballungay and Santos sparked a key response before Nelle buried a four-pointer early in the fourth to ignite a decisive 16-2 run that stretched the lead to 89-66 and effectively sealed the rout.

     

    Gilmore finished with 27 points and 29 rebounds for Titan Ultra but struggled with 10 turnovers.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Later in the evening, NLEX produced a late surge of its own, completing a comeback to beat Magnolia, 112-105.

     

    The Road Warriors once again leaned on clutch execution down the stretch. After delivering the game-winning shot in their previous win against Blackwater Bossing, Robert Bolick turned playmaker this time.

     

    Bolick found Deschon Winston in the corner for a three-pointer that pushed the lead to 111-103 with 47.3 seconds left, effectively putting the game out of reach.

     

    Seven Road Warriors finished in double figures in a balanced offensive display.

     

    Import Cady Lalanne led the way with 24 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks, while Bolick, Winston, and JB Bahio added 14 points each, while rookie playmaker LJ Gonzales earned Player of the Game honors after tallying 13 points, seven rebounds, and three assists.

     

    Kevin Alas also scored 13 points, including a key four-pointer midway through the fourth that helped create breathing room for NLEX.

     

    Magnolia, meanwhile, dropped to 0-2 despite a strong offensive showing as import Nuni Omot led the Hotshots with 32 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. Jerom Lastimosa added 23 points on efficient shooting, while Rome Dela Rosa and Zav Lucero chipped in 17 and 16 points, respectively.

     

    Magnolia appeared in control earlier after building a 56-43 lead late in the second quarter but struggled to contain NLEX’s surge in the second half.

     

    Both Phoenix and NLEX now share the early lead in the standings with identical 2-0 records alongside Terrafirma Dyip.

     

    Magnolia will try to avoid a deeper hole when it faces Blackwater next Sunday, while NLEX braces for a marquee matchup against the TNT Tropang 5G.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

     📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!  

  • Macau coach clarifies the absence of Sam Deguara from Black Knights’ PBA roster

    Macau coach clarifies the absence of Sam Deguara from Black Knights’ PBA roster

    When the Macau Black Bears announced their entry into the PBA as a guest team, Filipino basketball fans immediately imagined one towering possibility — the arrival of 7-foot-6 center Sam Deguara.


    The Maltese giant has become a familiar presence in Asian basketball over the years, and many expected him to anchor the team when it rebranded as the Macau Black Knights for the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup. But when the team finally unveiled its roster, Deguara’s name was nowhere to be found.

     

    Macau head coach Garrett Kelly addressed the speculation during halftime of the Terrafirma-Titan matchup, explaining that Deguara’s absence had less to do with team plans and more with the realities of professional basketball.

     

    “Sam’s been with us, we love Sam. He’s part of our family. He’s been with us for almost two years now, off and on. But, at the end of the day, professional basketball players are independent contractors. And they gotta go where their money is.” he said.

     

    Instead of joining the Black Knights in the PBA, the towering center opted to continue his career in Taiwan, where he currently plays in the P.League+.

     

    Kelly said the decision was one he fully understands, especially considering the short window most athletes have to maximize their careers.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    “Their career is a short span of their life. If you’re lucky, ten years. If you’re really lucky, more than ten years. But in reality, it’s as long as your body holds up. And Sam obviously has one of the largest bodies on earth for a basketball player. He keeps himself in phenomenal shape, and he’s a great teammate and a great person,” the Black Knights head coach said.

     

    Still, the door remains open. Kelly revealed that he maintains regular communication with the Maltese center and would welcome him back should the opportunity arise during the conference.

     

    “We wish him the best. I keep in touch with him. I talk to him once a week. If and when we have an opportunity for him, we’d love to have him back. So we’ll just have to wait and see,” said Kelly.

     

    For now, Deguara continues to make an impact in Taiwan. Through his first three games in the P.League+, the 34-year-old big man is averaging 16.3 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists — numbers that highlight why he remains a sought-after presence across Asian leagues.

     

    Over the years, Deguara has built a unique basketball journey throughout the region. Since arriving in Asia in 2017, the towering center has suited up for teams in Thailand, Macau, Hong Kong, Japan, and even the Philippines with Alab Pilipinas-San Miguel in the now-defunct ASEAN Basketball League.

     

    While fans may have hoped to see his massive frame dominating the paint in the PBA once again, his career path continues to take him across Asia — proving that in professional basketball, opportunity often dictates the next destination.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • Mikey Williams focuses on Converge, not TNT reunion

    Mikey Williams focuses on Converge, not TNT reunion

    Mikey Williams marked his long-awaited return to the PBA by suiting up for the Converge FiberXers, helping his new team rally past the Macau Black Knights, 102-94, in the Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup opener at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

    Despite limited minutes in his first game in nearly three years, Williams made his presence felt. Entering in the fourth quarter, he contributed three key assists as Converge closed the game with a decisive 14-0 run to seal the victory.

     

    The former Finals MVP, who won multiple championships with TNT Tropang 5G, is aware that fans are already buzzing about a potential showdown against his old team. Yet, Williams remains grounded and focused on the immediate challenge.

     

    “I’m not really focused on that right now,” he said when asked about facing TNT. “We have a game in front of us on Saturday, so we’re just taking everything one game at a time.”

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Instead of looking ahead to potential storybook reunions, Williams’ priority is finding his rhythm with Converge, a team he joined just days before the season opener. He praised the existing core, which includes guards Alec Stockton and Juan Gomez de Liaño, big men Justin Arana and Justine Baltazar, and import Kylor Kelley.

     

    “They already have a great foundation from the guards to the bigs,” he said. “I’m just trying to assert myself where I see fit.”

     

    For Williams, the return to the PBA was more than just another game—it was a personal milestone. “Time after time, not being able to do what I love to do—that’s the hardest thing to deal with,” he reflected. “So I was just happy to touch the floor again.”

     

    As the FiberXers prepare for their next outing, Williams’ measured approach signals a veteran mindset: one game at a time, building chemistry, and letting future matchups unfold naturally.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

     📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!