The New World Order

Photo: PampangaNewsNow

The Converge FiberXers have officially put the PBA on notice.

It took a few seasons to get to where they are now — from the time they took over the Alaska Aces/Milkmen franchise and seemingly struggled despite having a formidable collegiate champion coach in Aldin Ayo at the helm. Back then, they looked like an expansion team trying to stay afloat, forced to let go of established holdovers and “settling” for either losing those players for less (Jeron Teng) or, worse, for nothing at all (Maverick Ahanmisi).

Little did we know — or perhaps, as fate would have it — they simply needed time and flexibility to make the right moves. Enter names like Jacob Lao (who quietly exited but is now back), Charles Tiu, Rajko Toroman, and of course, the big boss — the El Patrón of Pampanga basketball — Pampanga Vice Governor Delta Pineda, who went from being a consultant/assistant to now a full-time head coach.

2025 PBA Draft Reaction

Height is might in the PBA.
Geo Chiu 2025 PBA Draft 1st Pick
(Photo by OneSports.ph)

With the 2025 PBA Draft finally over, the dust settled and smoke cleared, Season 50 promises to offer a wave of excitement with a "new" team all set to make some noise.

And no, we are not talking about Pureblends/ Titan Maxx or whichever company decides to purchase NorthPort Batang Pier (should the sale push through in what local sports journos have been saying as a "lock, stock, and barrel" deal). We are talking about the Converge FiberXers, which appeared to be back in the hunt after looking a bit worrisome last season (following the exits of Jacob Lao and Charles Tiu). Lao of course, is back with the team, with Delta Pineda stepping in as head coach (armed with consultant Rajko Toroman).

But that's a long format entry for another day, today, let's focus on the up and coming future stars of the PBA. Let's go!

1. Geo Chiu, C, Terra Firma - during the combine, there was simply no denying that Chiu was a towering presence even if he didn't even break a sweat (literally, because he didn't participate in any of the physical activities). The kid is 6"9, has a strong looking build, and is mobile. Yes, he's raw, but he'll get time to develop on a team that you know, isn't really known for giving a F about winning. He's a project based on his whole college run, overseas run included, but still very young, looks like he's got a good head on him, and if he is able to put together 2-3 post moves, would still be okay in a league that doesn't really have a lot of locals standing over 6"7. At worst, he doesn't improve and simply fades away into obscurity. Grade: B-