ALEC Stockton felt fortunate to have hit the game-winning shot for Converge on Monday even after it was initially thought that he was already ejected from Game Three of the PBA 49th Season Governors’ Cup quarterfinals.
Stockton scored the buzzer-beater to complete Converge’s comeback from 27 points down against San Miguel, 114-112. The FiberXers outscored the Beermen, 48-25, in the fourth quarter to steal the win and stay alive in the playoffs.
Stockton became the unlikely hero for Converge after nearly getting ejected with 0.6 seconds left in the first quarter in a play that saw him land an elbow to Kris Rosales' jaw. The incident prompted several players to keep the two apart.
The referees' call was initially a flagrant foul two against Stockton but it was downgraded to a flagrant foul one upon a review.
Sigh of relief for Stockton
“I thought it was over for me,” said Stockton. “Shoutout to the referees for changing the call. I wouldn’t be here right now.”
Even though he stayed in the game, Stockton nearly cost Converge the win when he committed a foul against Marcio Lassiter while he was attempting a three-point shot. Lassiter converted all three free throws to tie the count at 112.
“We were up by three, and it did almost cost us the game. I had to do something. I’m just glad I made the shot and got ourselves another chance on Friday,” said Stockton.
Stockton thanked the coaching staff for trusting him to take the shot that eventually became the game-winner.
“Coach drew it up for me. He trusted me to take the last shot for the last game. I just believe in that shot. I worked with coach Willie (Miller) and working on my stepback after every practice and I thank God we came out of this,” said Stockton.
On the incident with Rosales, Stockton said the elbow was unintentional, and part of being competitive in a playoff atmosphere.
“I think it’s just in the heat of the moment. One of us got hit and one thing led to another,” said Stockton.
“I’m cool,” said Stockton, referring to Rosales. “It’s just basketball. Someone is going to get hit no matter what. But that’s the competition of the game. But you can take it personal. On the court, we may look like we are going to kill each other but off the court, I have no problem.”
“Shoutout to Kris. My fault, if I am,” said Stockton.
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