Convergys inches closer to grandslam dream in E-Leagues

CEBU, Philippines — The Convergys Converters moved one step closer from fulfilling their grandslam ambition after downing the Teleperformance All-Stars, 74-62, in the opener of their best-of-three Elite Classic finals in the Tanduay Athletics CSCC E-Leagues for Basketball Season 13 last Saturday at the City Sports Club-Cebu gym.

Franz Dionne Dysam showed he's the rightful MVP after exploding for 29 points on top of four assists, two rebounds and as many steals for the Converters, who banked on a scintillating offensive show in the middle quarters to blow away the All-Stars.

Trailing 17-19 after the first period, the Converters countered with a searing run, 24-13, to seize control of the match at halftime, 41-32.

The two-time defending champions further mauled the All-Stars in the third period, 18-11, to carry a 16-point advantage, 59-43, going into the final 10 minutes of play. The All-Stars failed to come out of that deep hole.

Aldene Jay Batino was the other bright spot for the Converters with a solid 14-point, 14-rebound performance spiked with four assists and four steals in an all-around hardcourt brilliance.

Mon Xavier Dico paced the All-Stars with 12 points and five rebounds while Dean Junber Escalon had 10 points in a losing effort.

In the Evo League championship, Johnrey Girasol finished with 19 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals as the QBE Generals bested the Contact Solutions Flying Lemurs, 64-59, to draw first blood in their own race-to-2 series.

Carlo Bernard Cabarrubias chipped in 10 points and seven rebounds for the Generals, who wisely protected a 50-40 lead after three quarters to baffle the Flying Lemuers at the final buzzer.

Rodginald Antipala had 12 points, five rebounds, four assists and two  steals for the Generals, but regular season MVP Roberto Castro, Jr.was held off to only 10 points  he had also seven rebounds, five assists, three blocks and two steals that all went for naught. —EBV (FREEMAN)