Murrell, Hill connive as Converge downs NLEX
David Murrell and Tyrus Hill combined in a huge second half for Converge to take down NLEX, 112-108, and get back on track in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Thursday, July 7.
Murrell and Hill spearheaded the attack for the FiberXers who unleashed a back-breaking 15-3 run to open the final frame and create the separation to notch their third win in eight games and give their bid for playoff spot a much-needed boost.
Murrell finished with 21 points on an efficient 10-of-14 clip from the field while Hill added 18 points and a couple of highlight plays along with seven rebounds.
Converge also got solid contributions from Taylor Browne who scored all of his 15 points in the second half and Justin Arana who gave the FiberXers a huge lift in the final frame with 11 fourth quarter points.
The FiberXers had a comfortable eight point lead, 46-38, at the break but was completely erased by the Road Warriors behind the hot hands of Kris Rosales who exploded for 29 points on a 7-of-12 shooting from beyond the arc.
NLEX engaged Converge in a shootout in the third frame with Rosales and Kevin Alas powering the Road Warriors’ 38-point third quarter explosion.
The Yeng Guiao-mentored squad however lost steam in the final frame to which the FiberXers took advantage to build a 16-point lead, 98-82, which proved to be enough for Converge to survive a late fightback from the Road Warriors.