CONVERGE will stick it out with import Jalen Jones moving forward into the PBA Governors Cup playoffs.
Coach Franco Atienza said Jones is already secured in his job with the FiberXers, as original choice Scotty Hopson has gone back to the US.
“He’s now in the US. Wala tayong magagawa injured kasi siya,” said Atienza Monday night as Converge capped its campaign in the group stage of the season-opening conference with an 89-82 win over Magnolia at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Hopson hurt his hip flexor which has admittedly limited his explosiveness.
Yet, he played through the pain and even guided the FiberXers to a 100-99 thriller over Terrafirma courtesy of a game-winning four-point shot.
It proved to be Hopson's final game for Converge.
“Pero kung hindi naman siya injured, wala tayong pag-uusapan dun. He’ll definitely stay,” said Franco.
He added Hopson understood the situation and took everything professionally.
Jones perfect thus far in Converge stint
Jones has so far won the two games he played for the FiberXers, including against the Hotshots where he finished with a double-double of 27 points and 12 rebounds.
Atienza is keeping his fingers crossed Jones will be healthy enough for the playoffs, as Converge has San Miguel as its quarterfinals opponent in a best-of-five series.
“Knock on wood that no injury will happen. Mahirap nang magpalit ng import kapag playoffs,” said the coach.
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