The Converge FiberXers’ defensive plays in the final minute frustrated the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters as they escaped with a 132-127 win on Wednesday in the Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
Quincy Miller topscored with 46 points and hauled down 18 rebounds for the FiberXers, who pulled off their sixth straight win and seventh overall in nine outings.
Miller’s heroics included eight triples out of a total of 22 three-point shots made by Converge, both franchise highs.
Jeron Teng added 25 points as the FiberXers climbed to second position behind the Magnolia Timplados Hotshots (6-1).
Coach Aldin Ayo said the FiberXers were distracted by the Fuel Masters’ zone defense, but their adjustments in the final period kept them on track.
RK Ilagan made 22 points, a new career high, while Maverick Ahanmisi knocked in 13 for the FiberXers, who weathered a late rally from the Fuel Masters.
Kaleb Wesson shot 25 points for the Fuel Masters, who now have a 5-4 card.
The Fuel Masters threatened, 127-131.
But a charity from Alec Stockton, followed by Justine Arana’s block on Serrano and a bungled trey by Tyler Tio allowed the FiberXers to hang on to the lead in the final 13 seconds. Peter Atencio