WATCH: Brgy. Ginebra vs Converge Game Highlights [PBA S48 PH Cup | Apr. 27, 2024]

Barangay Ginebra secured their spot in the playoffs and boosted their chances for a twice-to-beat advantage in the PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals with a convincing 105-93 victory over Converge at the Aquilino Pimentel Jr. International Convention Center on Saturday.

Christian Standhardinger had a standout performance, scoring 33 points and coming close to a triple-double. Maverick Ahanmisi and Scottie Thompson also put up strong all-around numbers, contributing to the Kings’ fourth consecutive win and securing at least a tie for second place in the Philippine Cup eliminations with a 7-3 record.

On the other hand, Converge missed an opportunity to build on their previous upset win over the Meralco Bolts and fell to a 1-9 record. Despite this, Coach Aldin Ayo’s team still has a chance to end their campaign on a positive note when they face the TNT Tropang Giga.

Barangay Ginebra now has a firm grip on second place but faces a crucial matchup against the NLEX Road Warriors on May 5. Their victory over Converge in Cagayan de Oro was largely thanks to the stellar performances of Standhardinger, Ahanmisi, and Thompson.

Ahanmisi impressed with 17 points, including four three-pointers, and added seven assists and six rebounds. Thompson, returning to form after an injury, contributed 10 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists.

The trio of Standhardinger, Ahanmisi, and Thompson played key roles in Ginebra’s dominant 35-21 run after being tied at 48-all at halftime. Ralph Cu (13 points), Japeth Aguilar (12 points), and Nard Pinto (10 points) also made significant contributions as the Kings overcame Alec Stockton’s 32-point performance for Converge.

Justin Arana (18 points) and Aljun Melecio (10 points) were also standouts for Converge in the losing effort.