In Vic Manuel’s first game with the Converge FiberXers, they snapped a two-game skid for a seventh win in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup.
Converge coach Delta Pineda believes that Vic Manuel is just what the doctor ordered for the FiberXers.
Pineda stressed the need to plug in the seasoned cager to the team to help them reach the next level after struggling to get past the quarterfinals in the previous conferences.
Manuel is a battle-scarred veteran who won a couple of championships with San Miguel in 2023 and 2024.
“Kailangan po nila ng tito sa game,” said Pineda after his wards prevailed over NLEX, 107-95, in overtime in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Wednesday, Dec. 17.
[RELATED STORY: PBA: Baltazar posts 20-20 as Converge outlasts NLEX in OT, remains in hunt for QF bonus]
Manuel signed a short-term contract that will lapse at the end of Converge's campaign in the conference.
The “Muscle Man” only had two days of practice with the team so far but already flexed his muscles in his limited time on the court.
[RELATED STORY: PBA: Delta Pineda works on Converge's confidence to complete OT win over NLEX]
He had five points and two rebounds in nearly seven minutes of play. Though not as prolific as he was in his prime, Manuel’s value is more crucial off the court.
“Kailangan ng beterano para makatulong. Kasi si Vic has more championship experience, during playoffs. Makatutulong po,” said Pineda.
“Nawalan kasi kami isang player because of the trade. May open spot kaya we think Vic is the best guy para sa position na 'yon. Even sa bench, nakatutulong na palakasin ang loob ng mga bata.”
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Like most sportswriters, Jan Ballesteros once dreamed of becoming a professional hooper. But he learned the hard way that it’s not for everyone.
He continues to be involved in the sport he loves, but this time as a member of the PBA Press Corps. Aside from primarily covering the PBA, he is also assigned to cover Gilas Pilipinas.