FiberXers bring back Franklin

Converge has made an early change to its import lineup, bringing back former reinforcement Jamaal Franklin to replace Jalen Hudson after just four games in the 2026 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Season 50 Governors' Cup.

The FiberXers have already notified the league of the move, paving the way for Franklin's return to the franchise after a three-year absence.

Hudson averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.3 assists across four games. He impressed in his debut with 20 points, eight rebounds, and four assists but was unable to sustain that form over the succeeding contests.

His toughest outing came in Converge's narrow victory over Terrafirma, where he was held to just two points.

Franklin, meanwhile, returns after a productive stint with the FiberXers during the 2023 Governors' Cup. He averaged 34.0 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 7.6 assists, helping Converge finish with a 6-5 record and secure the seventh seed before bowing out in the quarterfinals.

Following his previous PBA campaign, Franklin continued his career overseas, first with Adelaide in Australia's National Basketball League before moving to the Guangzhou Loong Lions in the Chinese Basketball Association.

The FiberXers are expected to field Franklin on Tuesday against TNT at Ninoy Aquino Stadium as they look to strengthen their campaign with a familiar leader back in the fold.