Justin Arana, center of Converge FiberXers, highlighted how team bonding and open communication continue to strengthen the chemistry of the team on and off the court.

He shared that team lunches with teammates like Balti and Alec have become opportunities not just to relax, but also to openly discuss their struggles and the areas they need to improve on as a team.

“Kasi minsan, nagsi-set kami nila Balti, nila Alec ng team lunch. So, may mga times na napagkukuwentuhan namin yung mga ganito, ganiyan. Kumbaga, lahat naman kami open kung ano yung situation at kung ano yung puwede naming ma-improve,” he shared.

According to Arana, these gatherings allow everyone to speak honestly about their situation, while veterans also step up to give advice and guidance to help the squad grow together.

“May mga player na nagsu-suggest, especially yung mga veteran. Sila Calvin, talagang nagsasalita sila. Especially late in the conference, na-figure out namin kung paano. At least nung nanalo na kami, nag-jell na kahit papaano.”

Despite their challenges in this conference, Arana believes those conversations helped the team slowly understand each other better later in the season.

For the hardworking big man, teamwork and trust remain essential, proving that strong relationships outside the court can help build stronger performances on it.