PBA: Magnolia stifles Converge to go 2-0

Ian Sangalang got the better of Balti Baltazar in their battle in the paint. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--Magnolia banked on a stifling defense to rip Converge, 83-71, to kick off the PBA's 50th anniversary festivities on Wednesday night at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The Purefoods franchise, known for putting a premium on stymying its opponents, frustrated the league's youngest member club, holding them to just 35.6 percent shooting while forcing 18 turnovers.

Also, Ian Sangalang imposed his will inside and made easy baskets to fuel the Hotshots' offense.

Sangalang finished with 18 points on 9-of-13 shooting, nine rebounds, and four assists to lead Magnolia, which momentarily tied Meralco at the top of the standings at 2-0.

Zav Lucero also tallied 18 points with five rebounds, two assists, and two blocks.

Justin Arana and Schonny Winston each had 14 markers with Arana grabbing 13 boards for Converge, which fell to 1-2.

Balti Baltazar and Kevin Racal each put up 11 points with Baltazar also securing 13 rebounds.

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