Ian Sangaran of Magnolia Centre will converge big man Justin Balthazar at the PBA Philippine Cup match held at Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.
MANILA, Philippines – Magnolia veteran Ian Sangalan has given high praise to the young army of paint converges.
Sangalang won the Fiberxers 83-71 83-71 83-71, 83-71, kicked off the PBA Philippine Cup Doubleheader to celebrate the league’s 50th anniversary at Historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
However, it should not be twisted. The numbers on the scoresheet may not display it, but Sangaran certainly had some difficulties reaching his tempo.
Read: PBA: Magnolia hopes that past lessons can maintain a strong opening this time
Ian Sangalang talks about his matchups between Converge Big Men, Justin Arana and Justine Baltazar. @inquirersports #PBA50 pic.twitter.com/gbdsgbdvgx
– Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@melofuertesinq) April 9, 2025
“The way they play, they had to respect them because they’re no longer children. They don’t play like children, so I had to respect them,” Sangaran said Wednesday.
“If you don’t respect them, they’ll eat you alive. You’ve seen how they played in the past few games.”
Sangaran finished a double double rebound shy with 18 points with four assists in 32 minutes and nine boards
San Sebastian’s products may have led the team to 2-0 early in the meeting, but he certainly struggled to deal with big names Justin Balthazar and Justin Alana.
Read: PBA: Zavier Lucero leads Blackwater Magnolia’s defeat in opener
Alana finished with 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Balthazar registered 11 points and 13 rebounds in his first game against Sangaran.
“I’m pleased to face him. This is my first match,” Sangaran said of Balthazar.
“You really need to respect that kid. He plays very well now. I’m happy he’s in the PBA right now.”
After Magnolia, San Miguel Beer will be held at Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.
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