EJ Anosike outplays Jalen Jones as SMB takes 2-0 lead vs Converge in PBA Govs' Cup QFs

EJ Anosike exploded for 41 points in Game 2. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--EJ Anosike prevailed in a shootout against Jalen Jones as San Miguel took a 2-0 lead in its best-of-five PBA Governors' Cup quarterfinals against Converge with a 107-100 win on Saturday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Anosike fired 41 points, 23 in the second half, on 14-of-24 shooting with nine rebounds and five assists as the Beermen prevailed despite Jones and the FiberXers showing heart late in the fourth quarter even if Justin Arana reportedly hyperextended his knee earlier in the period.

The new SMB import, though, credited the locals for inspiring him to wax hot in Game 2.

"When everyone plays well, the energy is contagious," Anosike said after the game.

June Mar Fajardo, despite fewer minutes this time, still had 15 points on 6-of-8 field goals, 16 rebounds, and one assist as the Beermen can sweep their series on Monday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Jones finished with 36 points on 15-of-29 shots with 12 rebounds, three assists, and one block for the FiberXers, who now need a reverse sweep to steal the semifinal spot away.

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