“Walang trade”: Dennis Pineda clears the air on Alec Stockton’s future with Converge

The Converge FiberXers enjoyed a respectable run in the ongoing 2025 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup, reaching the quarterfinals and showing flashes of their potential as one of the league’s rising squads. However, their campaign came to an abrupt and painful end after a heartbreaking loss to Barangay Ginebra San Miguel—despite carrying a twice-to-beat advantage.

Converge’s quarterfinal exit was punctuated by a dramatic finish that continues to be discussed by fans and analysts. With the FiberXers holding a slim lead late in their do-or-die matchup, guard Alec Stockton committed a crucial foul on Ginebra’s Jeremiah Gray, who was attempting a three-pointer. Gray calmly sank all three free throws, forcing the game into overtime, where Ginebra eventually pulled away and secured the win.

Following the defeat, speculation quickly emerged regarding Stockton’s future with the franchise, with some questioning whether the late-game blunder might trigger roster changes. However, Converge head coach Dennis Pineda moved to silence trade rumors during an appearance on Snow Badua’s “No Cooking Show” podcast, addressing the situation head-on.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

“Walang trade. Naeepektuhan ang mga players at naapektuhan ang samahan ng team,” Pineda said, making it clear that the organization has no plans to move Stockton and emphasizing the importance of maintaining team chemistry and morale.

Was listening to Snow Badua’s No Cooking Show live. Coach Delta called in and mentioned a few things:

1. Debunks Alec Stockton trade rumors
2. Dave Ildefonso won’t play for Converge until MPBL contract ends (ending Dec 2026)
3. No import yet as of now

— nil (@syrnil_) January 12, 2026

Despite the disappointment, Pineda expressed pride in his squad’s overall performance throughout the Philippine Cup. Converge—one of the younger teams in the league—finished fourth in the eliminations with an impressive 7–4 win-loss record. Their competitive showing against top-tier opponents highlighted the group’s growth and potential moving forward.

“Nakita ko ang attitude ng team, wala pong sumuko. Di n’yo nakita na nag-give up ang team, determinado na manalo. Mga bagito, pero nakapag-bigay po kami ng saya. Maganda ang Game Two vs. Barangay Ginebra,” he added, commending his players for their resilience and fighting spirit even in the toughest moments.

Pineda, who previously served as Governor of Pampanga from 2013 to 2019, also addressed another lingering topic: the status of Dave Ildefonso, whose potential move to Converge has been widely discussed. The coach confirmed that Ildefonso will honor his existing contract with the Abra Solid North Weavers in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) before any formal transfer can take place.

“I need to respect ‘yung kontrata n’ya with Abra,” Pineda concluded, reinforcing the team’s commitment to professionalism and transparent dealings with players and partner organizations.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate sports fans.