PBA: Defense-first Adrian Wong waxes hot for Converge in preseason

Adrian Wong. PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—When Converge secured the services of Adrian Wong following a trade with Magnolia earlier this year, critics questioned how he would fit under coach Aldin Ayo’s system.

It didn’t take long for Wong to show his value to the FiberXers by shooting his way to 26 points in the squad’s dominant 123-95 win over Barangay Ginebra in the PBA On Tour.

Not bad for someone whose primary role is to be one of the anchors on the defensive end.

“Actually, we got Adrian for defensive purposes. It just so happened that he was the one always open (tonight). Our rule is, if you’re open, you have to take those shots,” Ayo said at San Juan Arena on Sunday.

“He came from one of the best basketball programs here in college (Ateneo). He is fundamentally sound and he just plays whatever role you give him and for us, that role is to play defense.”

Wong showed he could be a reliable two-way player for the FiberXers, sinking eight of his 13 tries from long range.

The 27-year-old Wong, along with a 2023 first round draft pick, was acquired by the FiberXers in exchange for Abu Tratter and David Murrell.

Defense may be his top priority but Wong also has the go signal to shoot when open.

“We don’t have designated shooters in our offense so we just have to look for the hole. Whoever’s open will shoot and for us, everybody can shoot. It doesn’t matter if you’re big or small as long as you’re the one given by the defense, you have to take those shots,” said Ayo.

“We’re not specifically looking for anyone, as long as he (Wong) is free, he will take those shots.”

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