Franklin makes FiberXers return, face Tropang 5G

Jamaal Franklin makes his much-anticipated return to Converge as the FiberXers take on TNT in Tuesday's Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Season 50 Governors' Cup doubleheader at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m., with Franklin expected to provide an immediate boost after replacing Jalen Hudson, whose four-game stint fell short of expectations.

Once regarded as one of the league's most explosive scorers after erupting for 56 points during his previous PBA stint, Hudson averaged just 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.3 assists before Converge opted for a change.

Despite Hudson's struggles, the FiberXers opened the conference with three straight victories behind the strong play of their local core, led by star big man Justin Arana.

Their unbeaten run, however, came to an end last Wednesday with a 128-122 loss to San Miguel Beer, a game in which Hudson managed only 15 points on 16 field-goal attempts.

Converge now turns to a familiar face in Franklin, who starred for the franchise during the 2023 Governors' Cup by averaging 34.0 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 7.6 assists while leading the team to the quarterfinals.

The FiberXers hope Franklin's return sparks an immediate turnaround, although they face a TNT squad eager to halt its own skid.

After winning its conference opener, the Tropang 5G have dropped back-to-back games to Titan Ultra and Terrafirma, with injuries continuing to hamper the defending champions.

TNT will also be looking to build momentum before taking on San Miguel Beer and unbeaten NLEX in its next two assignments.

According to Tiger Score sportsbook, Converge enters the contest as a 3.5-point favorite, with the over/under set at 214.5 points.

In the 5:15 p.m. opener, Phoenix looks to bounce back and strengthen its hold on the Group B lead against Blackwater.

The Fuel Masters saw their bid for a 4-0 start snapped by Rain or Shine but remain atop the standings in a tightly contested group.

Just behind Phoenix are Meralco, Blackwater, and Rain or Shine, which all carry identical 2-2 records.

Blackwater, meanwhile, is looking to end a two-game skid after suffering a lopsided 115-85 defeat to Barangay Ginebra.

The Bossing hope to quickly recover from that setback against a Phoenix side equally determined to return to the win column.

According to Tiger Score sportsbook, Blackwater is a 5.0-point underdog, while the total points line is set at 217.0.