Aldin Ayo says changes expected at Converge ahead of PBA Govs' Cup QFs amid Jamaal Franklin's off-night

Coach Aldin hinted at changes that could happen at Converge, but he also said Jamaal Franklin's fate is the team management's call. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

PASIG—A shakeup could happen at Converge within the next two weeks as the team shifts its attention to the PBA Governors' Cup quarterfinals.

According to head coach Aldin Ayo, changes are expected to take place at the camp of the league's newcomer now that its campaign in the elimination round has ended.

"Di ko pa masasabi kung ano yung definite na decision, but for sure, there will be changes," Ayo said on Sunday night.

Interestingly enough, Ayo uttered those words right after a game against Barangay Ginebra where Jamaal Franklin, the import who has been the FiberXers' focal point on offense, suddenly went ice cold and even gun-shy.

[Related Story: After 57-point blast, Jamaal Franklin suddenly goes gun-shy vs. Ginebra]

"Medyo na-surprise ako," Ayo reacted to Franklin's off-night that left the viewers whether at the PhilSports Arena here or on various viewing platforms puzzled. "The instruction was really maglaro lang sila sa sistema, pero I don't know what happened."

However, when asked if the changes include letting go of Franklin, who despite scoring 57 the previous outing against Meralco only made 4-of-20 from three-point range, Ayo said that's beyond his control.

"It's not my decision. It will be a decision of the management," the gaffer further said.

He, however, added that despite the FiberXers now having to settle for the twice-to-beat disadvantage in the next round after losing to the Gin Kings, they seem to have finally seen what is going wrong with them, especially during the three-game losing streak that put an end to their Top 4 hopes.

"Alam na namin kung ano'ng problema... and yung problema na yun, magagawan ng paraan. Ang masakit kasi, yung natatalo ka, pero hindi mo alam kung ano ang tumatama sa'yo. Mahirap yun, pero ito: natatalo kami, pero alam namin yung problema," Ayo said.

Citing a person privy to the situation, word has reached Dugout Philippines that an internal conflict within the Converge camp happened involving Franklin, seemingly stemming from his dismal output against Ginebra.

Meanwhile, one change that is certain, according to Ayo, is the expected return of Aljun Melecio from a calf strain.

"Na-miss ko [si Aljun], pero hopefully, makabalik siya," Ayo said.

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