Ginebra boosts bid for playoff bonus with big win over Converge

Ginebra shored up its playoff bonus bid and ended its elimination round campaign on a high note after a 115-96 win over Converge in the 2022 PBA Commissioner's Cup on Wednesday at the PhilSports Arena. 

Ginebra improved to 9-3 to claim solo third spot while awaiting the result of the game between Magnolia and Rain or Shine on Friday as a loss by the Hotshots will award the Gin Kings the twice-to-beat advantage. 

Converge, meanwhile, dropped to fourth place with an 8-4 card but is already assured of a quarterfinal berth. 

Justin Brownlee flirted with a triple-double as the resident import poured in 25 points on 50 percent shooting from the field to go along with 12 rebounds, nine assists, one steal, and a block to power Ginebra past the FiberXers. 

Japeth Aguilar chipped in 16 points and seven rebounds while Jamie Malonzo fired three triples to finish with 17 markers, eight boards, and four dimes. 

Converge pulled to within five late in the third period, 76-71, with a jumper from import Quincy Miller, who collected 16 points, 16 rebounds, and three assists, but Ginebra managed to head into the fourth carrying an 84-75 cushion. 

They then ignited in the fourth, outscoring Converge, 31 to 21, with Jeremiah Gray completing his two free throws to send Ginebra to a 22-point lead, 103-81, with 4:03 left to play. 

Rookie Justin Arana paced Converge with 23 points, eight rebounds, and two steals while Aljun Melecio chimed in with 12 markers.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News