Converge’s Justin Arana in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup. PBA Images.MANILA — Justin Arana delivered when it mattered most to keep Converge alive in the playoff race of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.
The FiberXers scored back-to-back wins over TNT Tropang 5G and Phoenix Fuel Masters, with Arana averaging 17.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists.
His efforts earned him PBA Press Corps Player of the Week honors for the period of April 21 to 26, as Converge improved to a 4-6 win-loss record.
Arana’s performance in Converge’s 97-92 win over TNT proved pivotal, finishing with 21 points and 10 rebounds while holding his ground against 7-foot-3 import Bol Bol.
“Tinatagan ko na lang sarili ko, kasi para sa amin do-or-die na ‘to e,” said Arana. “Hindi ako puwedeng matakot kay Bol, kasi super kailangan namin itong laro na ‘to.”
The Arellano University product followed it up with 13 points, nine rebounds, and five assists in Converge’s dominant 130-103 rout of Phoenix, which also marked the debut of new import Donovan Smith.
The two wins allowed the FiberXers to close in on Magnolia and San Miguel Beer, who are tied for seventh and eighth place with identical 4-5 records.
Arana edged out Barangay Ginebra’s Troy Rosario and Rain or Shine’s Gian Mamuyac for the weekly citation, awarded by members of the PBA Press Corps who regularly cover the league beat.