Will hard work be enough?

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CONVERGE kicks off its drive today against a team whose new coach is all too familiar with the FiberXers.

Whether Converge can get the job done will be known when it squares off with a Jeff Cariaso-mentored Blackwater side as both teams make their debut in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

The game is set at 4 p.m. before Meralco tangles with Rain or Shine in the nightcap at 8.

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The FiberXers lost their top two gunners in Maverick Ahanmisi and Jeron Teng to Ginebra and San Miguel Beer, respectively, in the off-season, opting not to renew their contracts.

Fielding a young team, Converge tactician Aldin Ayo vowed his charges will make up for their lack of experience and lesser talent by working hard.

“One thing that is sure, we are going to be the hardest working team. Magta-tarabaho kami kasi alam namin bata kami, hindi naman kami ganoon ka-talented,” Ayo said. “We’ll be the hardest working team in terms of effort. We are the youngest team in all spots–the players, the coaching staff, and our managers. Talagang bata kami.

“That’s why we always practice hard every day. We make sure that we are improving and we’re gaining experience that will help us when the conference comes,” he added.

Among those expected to spearhead the FiberXers’ charge are import Tom Vodanovich, newly minted Rookie of the Year Justin Arana, Aljun Melecio, and Schonny Winston, tabbed ninth overall in the 48th season rookie Draft last September.

Converge has signed five other rookies aside from Winston–Bryan Santos, Patrick Maagdenberg, Inand Fornilos, and Kamron Vigan, while BJ Andrade has been placed in the reserve/injured list.

The FiberXers have added the likes of Adrian Wong, Mike Nieto, and Keith Zaldivar via trades or free agency and tapped former two-time MVP Willie Miller as assistant coach yesterday.

“We’re thrilled to have Willie Miller join our coaching staff at the Converge FiberXers,” Converge team manager Jacob Lao said. “His unparalleled experience and exceptional skills as a guard in the PBA will be a game-changer for our young talents.

“With coach Willie’s guidance, our guards are poised for remarkable growth and development.”

Cariaso called the shots for the defunct Alaska franchise from 2019 and for Converge until the Philippine Cup last year when it was brought lock, stock, and barrel by Dennis Anthony Uy.

After his coaching stint with the FiberXers, Cariaso replaced Ariel Vanguardia last April.

“When you play against Converge you have to be ready na i-handle ang pressure nila,” Cariaso said.

“They’re really like a college team na puro pressure, so I think we have to be ready for that. If we’re ready for that then we can execute, get good shots.”

Chris Ortiz, who saw action for the Puerto Rican national team in the last FIBA World Cup here, will reinforce the Bossing that also have the likes of No. 2 pick Christian David, and veterans Troy Rosario and JVee Casio.

Coach Luigi Trillo will also get his baptism of fire after taking over at the Bolts’ helm from Norman Black six months ago.

Six-foot-8 Nigerian American import Suleiman Braimoh will be counted upon by Meralco to deliver along with Chris Newsome, Allein Maliksi, Chris Banchero, Cliff Hodge, Bong Quinto, Raymond Almazan, and Aaron Black.

DaJuan Summers will backstop the Elasto Painters, who will also pin their hopes on Rey Nambatac, Leonard Santillan, new addition Mac Belo, veterans Beau Belga, Gabe Norwood, and James Yap, and freshmen Keith Datu and Sherwin Concepcion.

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