Converge FiberXers head coach Dennis “Delta” Pineda stood by Alec Stockton amid criticism over the guard’s late-game decisions, praising his defensive intensity and crucial contributions as the team prepares for its playoff campaign in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup.
Pineda acknowledged that Stockton had faced bashing on social media over his decision-making in crucial moments, but stressed that the guard’s value should not be measured by his scoring alone.
“Actually, Alex is a good player. Huwag niyong tignan si Alex sa scoring,” Pineda said, urging critics to pay closer attention to Stockton’s defensive effort and overall impact on the court.
“Tignan n’yo siya sa defense, the way he played defense. Iyung intensity na defense ni Alex, huwag ninyong tignan sa scoring si Alex. But tignan ninyo iyung contribution niya sa crucial time,” he added.
The Converge mentor emphasized his confidence in Stockton, whose timely plays helped the FiberXers deliver when it mattered most.
Pineda also expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress, pointing to the adjustments made to its lineup and the contributions of its younger players.
He acknowledged that the squad had gone through an inconsistent stretch in the previous conference, compounded by changes involving trades and difficulties with imports.
This time, however, he believes Converge has shown better cohesion and resilience, particularly in high-pressure situations.
With the quarterfinals approaching, Pineda said the FiberXers remain focused on their long-standing goal of reaching the semifinals, stressing that their recent victories should not lead to complacency.
“Ang pangarap namin kahit noon, ma-reach muna namin iyung semifinal, one game at a time, still,” he said.
Pineda reminded his players that defeating strong opponents should serve as motivation rather than a reason to relax, insisting that every succeeding rival must be treated with the same respect and intensity.
He added that the determination and focus the team displayed against the league’s stronger squads must carry over into the playoffs if Converge hopes to advance beyond the quarterfinals and reach the semifinals. (Adrian Co)
