Converge FiberXers head coach Delta Pineda said the team’s decision to acquire Calvin Abueva was driven by recent performance, on-court fit, and long-standing familiarity.
Pineda cited Abueva’s strong showing in the previous conference, where the veteran forward finished third in the Best Player of the Conference race while posting double-double averages.
“It is hard to pass up a player like Calvin. He was No. 3 in the BPC race last conference with a double-double average,” Pineda said.
Abueva averaged 23.6 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in his last campaign, numbers that placed him among the league’s top performers. However, Pineda stressed that the move was not easy giving up King Caralipio, Mark Omega, and Rey Suerte.
“It was a tough decision for us to trade our players,” Pineda said. “But for the most part, I think magiging malaking tulong sa amin yung energy and experience ni Calvin.”
Known for his high-motor play, rebounding, and defensive activity, Abueva is expected to address areas of need for the Converge FiberXers, which continues to build toward consistent contention.
Pineda also pointed to his personal history with Abueva as a factor in the team’s confidence in the acquisition.
“Matagal ko na kilala yung bata and mahaba na din pinagsamahan namin,” he said.
That familiarity, according to Pineda, extends beyond basketball and into team culture and expectations. Abueva’s roots in Angeles City also add a local dimension to the move, with the city closely associated with team owner Dennis Uy.
“I think he will be a great addition to what we are trying to achieve,” Pineda said.
The FiberXers view the trade not only as a talent upgrade but as a step toward injecting experience and intensity into their roster. (JNV)
