Jolo Mendoza of Converge FiberXers. –PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines – Converge got a big boost from draftee Jolo Mendoza to a 104-90 victory over Phoenix on the PBA On Tour on Friday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Mendoza was red hot from beyond the arc and finished with 26 points as the FiberXers posted their fourth win after eight games in the exhibition series.
The former Ateneo player, who will enter the draft in September, made seven 3-pointers, most coming in the second quarter to highlight a performance that came after averaging just 1.8 points in his previous four Tour appearances.
Mendoza’s former Blue Eagle teammate Mike Nieto had 20 points and nine rebounds, Kevin Racal scored 12 and Justine Arana had 10 points, nine rebounds, five assists and two blocks for Converge.
Another unknown player was also key to Converge’s triumph in Keith Zaldivar, who scored eight of his 11 points.
Zaldívar, who was signed a few weeks ago after being released by Magnolia, joined Mendoza and Nieto as Converge pulled away after Phoenix pulled within six, 79-73, in the pay period.
Phoenix fell to 3-5 on the On Tour after losing five of its last six games.
Sean Manganti recorded 15 points and eight rebounds for the Fuel Masters.
The scores:
CONVERGE 104—Mendoza 26, Nieto 20, Racal 12, Zaldivar 11, Stockton 9, Ambohot 9, Arana 8, Guinto 5, Ebona 2.
PHOENIX 90—Manganti 15, Mocon 11, Muyang 10, Tio 9, Garcia 9, Camacho 9, Jazul 8, Lalata 8, Cell 6, Rangel 3, Alejandro 2, Fetalvero 0, Atienza 0.
Quarters: 21-26, 49-45, 72-68, 104-90.
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