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Tag: Blackwater Bossing

  • Sedrick Barefield edges closer to Gilas dream with Asian Games pool inclusion 

    Sedrick Barefield edges closer to Gilas dream with Asian Games pool inclusion 

    For years, wearing a Gilas Pilipinas jersey remained out of reach for Sedrick Barefield despite his Filipino roots.

     

    Now, the Blackwater star is closer than ever to turning that childhood dream into reality.

     

    Barefield has been named to the 30-man Gilas Pilipinas pool for the 2026 Asian Games, giving him a legitimate opportunity to represent the Philippines for the first time in international competition.

     

    Unlike FIBA tournaments, where Barefield is ineligible to suit up as a local player, the Asian Games follows a different set of eligibility rules that only require athletes to hold a Philippine passport.

     

    That distinction suddenly places the explosive guard firmly in contention as Gilas prepares to defend the historic gold medal it captured in Hangzhou two years ago.

     

    The Fil-Am guard admitted the news caught him by surprise but quickly became one of the biggest moments of his basketball career.

     

    “I was really excited. It got sent to me early in the morning.”

     

    Barefield told reporters.

     

    “It’s something that, as a kid, you always dream about. I’ve been aware of it since I was young, so I’m just excited. I’m praying for the best.”

     

    His inclusion comes alongside Meralco big man Brandon Bates as among the fresh faces added to the expanded national team pool ahead of the September tournament in Japan.

     

    While making the preliminary list is only the first step, Barefield understands the opportunity that now lies in front of him.

     

    Rather than looking too far ahead, he plans to focus on proving himself if given the chance to train with some of the country’s best players under Gilas.

     

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    “I’m not sure what’s going to happen from here, but I’m praying for the best,”

     

    he said.

     

    “I’m going to give it my all day in and day out. I’m going to soak up as much as I can from the players around me and use it as an opportunity to grow and learn.”

     

    Barefield also backed up his growing reputation on the court just hours after the announcement.

     

    The high-scoring guard erupted for 26 points to lead Blackwater past Phoenix, 106-100, in the opening game of the second round of the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup, further strengthening his case as one of the league’s most dynamic offensive weapons.

     

    Should Barefield survive the final cut, he would become one of the key backcourt options for a Gilas squad aiming to defend the Asian Games championship it famously won in 2023 under coach Tim Cone.

     

    For Barefield, however, the objective extends beyond simply making the roster.

     

    “You want to walk away with a medal, a gold medal. Hopefully we can bring that home,” Barefield added on Gilas’ Asian Games mindset.

     

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  • Sedrick Barefield fuels Blackwater’s revenge bid, powers Bossing past Phoenix

    Sedrick Barefield fuels Blackwater’s revenge bid, powers Bossing past Phoenix

    After ending the opening round of the PBA Governor’s Cup with a frustrating 93-102 defeat to the Fuel Masters, the Bossing made sure history would not repeat itself. 


    They turned the tables on Wednesday night, using a dominant fourth-quarter finish to pull away for a 106-100 victory at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and breathe new life into their campaign.

     

    The win carried extra weight for Blackwater, which had dropped three straight games to close out the first round and entered the second phase of Group B competition needing a momentum-shifting performance.

     

    Sedrick Barefield made certain his second meeting with Phoenix would be remembered for different reasons.

     

    The sophomore guard, who was limited to just 10 points on 5-of-19 shooting in their previous encounter, erupted for 26 points this time. Eleven of those came in the final period as Blackwater unleashed a decisive 29-14 closing run that erased Phoenix’s hopes of completing another victory over the Bossing.

     

    “I feel like I had some of my best games against Phoenix so not having a great game against them last time kind of put a bad taste in the mouth,’’ Barefield said.

     

    His late-game takeover reflected the urgency inside the Blackwater locker room.

     

    “We knew today was important, if we lost, it would become tough for us going forward. It was do or die for us so that set the tone,” the sophomore guard said.

     

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    While Barefield delivered the finishing blows, import Kentrell Barkley provided the steady production that kept the Bossing within striking distance throughout the contest. Barkley powered Blackwater with 34 points, 16 rebounds, and three assists, while RK Ilagan chipped in 15 points and six rebounds.

     

    Head coach Pat Aquino praised Barefield’s growing influence after another clutch performance.

    “I love what Sed has been doing. He is becoming the leader of the team. He took over,” Aquino said.

     

    Phoenix, meanwhile, leaned heavily on import BJ Johnson, who exploded for a game-high 45 points in a losing effort. Ricci Rivero added 15 points, while Kai Ballungay finished with 12 as the Fuel Masters were unable to hold off Blackwater’s late surge.

     

    Despite the setback, Phoenix remained tied with Rain or Shine atop Group B with a 4-2 win-loss record.

     

    For Blackwater, the victory was more than just revenge. Improving to 3-3, the Bossing halted their three-game slide and put themselves back in the hunt as the second round gets underway.

     

    Blackwater will try to build on its renewed momentum when it takes on Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Sunday, August 9, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. 

     

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  • Blackwater eyes 2-0 start as Magnolia searches for first win in Governors’ Cup 

    Blackwater eyes 2-0 start as Magnolia searches for first win in Governors’ Cup 

    Momentum is on Blackwater’s side. Urgency belongs to Magnolia.

     

    Those contrasting storylines collide Friday night when the Bossing and the Hotshots square off in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, with Blackwater chasing a rare 2-0 start and Magnolia trying to avoid falling into an early hole in Group B.

     

    Game time is set for 7:30 p.m.

     

    Blackwater couldn’t have asked for a better conference opener.

     

    The Bossing dismantled Rain or Shine, 131-108, not only avenging the franchise’s humiliating 56-point defeat to the Elasto Painters last March but also sending a message that this year’s squad may be built differently.

     

    Rather than dwelling on revenge, however, head coach Pat Aquino wants his team focused on sustaining the level of basketball it displayed from opening tip to final buzzer.

     

    “I know it’s at the back of our minds but that’s the past already,” Aquino said after the victory.

    “We were aggressive from start to finish. Hopefully, this good start will continue.”

     

    The performance was fueled by an explosive PBA debut from import Kentrell Barkley, who nearly recorded a triple-double with 29 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists.

     

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    His all-around brilliance opened opportunities for the Bossing’s local core, with Sedrick Barefield pouring in 24 points, RK Ilagan adding 22, and Dalph Panopio contributing 19 in one of Blackwater’s most complete offensive performances in recent years.

     

    Barkley wasted little time making his presence felt, exploding for 18 points in the opening quarter while knocking down all four of his attempts from beyond the arc to help the Bossing race to a double-digit lead they never surrendered.

     

    Magnolia, meanwhile, enters the matchup looking for a quick response after letting a golden opportunity slip away in its conference opener.

     

    The Hotshots squandered a 16-point advantage before absorbing a 98-86 defeat to Phoenix Super LPG, with BJ Johnson taking over late to finish with 34 points and 10 rebounds.

     

    Now, Magnolia hopes import KJ Buffen can provide the spark needed to even its record.

     

    The former Indonesian Basketball League MVP faces the difficult task of slowing down Barkley while helping the Hotshots rediscover the consistency that disappeared in the second half of their opener.

     

    With Blackwater aiming to prove its dominant debut was no fluke and Magnolia desperate to avoid an 0-2 start, Friday’s clash offers an early measuring stick for two teams entering the Governors’ Cup with very different momentum—but equally important goals.

     

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  • Back with a Bang: Blackwater’s RK Ilagan named PBA Player of the Week in return from injury

    Back with a Bang: Blackwater’s RK Ilagan named PBA Player of the Week in return from injury

    Blackwater Bossing could not have asked for a better start to their 2026 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governors’ Cup campaign, opening the conference with a commanding 131-106 victory over the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on Saturday, July 11, at the Ynares Center in Montalban.

     

    Leading the way for Blackwater was guard RK Ilagan, who delivered a remarkable performance in his first game back after spending nearly three months on the sidelines with a knee injury. The 29-year-old wasted little time reminding everyone of his value to the Bossing, finishing with 22 points, five rebounds, three assists, and two steals in an all-around effort that helped power his team to an emphatic opening-day win.

     

    Beyond the numbers, Ilagan’s return provided Blackwater with much-needed energy and stability on both ends of the floor. He confidently attacked the defense, knocked down timely baskets, and made key plays that kept the Bossing in control throughout the contest. His performance was particularly significant considering he had not played since April, making his seamless transition back into the lineup all the more impressive.

     

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    Blackwater head coach Pat Aquino expressed his delight over Ilagan’s successful return, saying the coaching staff never doubted the veteran guard’s ability despite the lengthy layoff.

    “Very happy for him because I know the talent is there, it’s just how he composes himself going through his first game. I just gave him the time and confidence to show his talent and it’s a great comeback for him,” Aquino said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    Aquino’s confidence in Ilagan paid off, as the veteran guard rewarded that trust with one of the finest performances of the opening weekend of the conference. His composure, shot-making, and leadership played a major role in helping Blackwater establish its early momentum and begin its Governors’ Cup campaign on a winning note.

     

    The standout showing also earned Ilagan recognition from the media covering the league, as he was named the first PBA Player of the Week for the 2026 Governors’ Cup. The weekly citation, voted on by journalists from print, broadcast, and digital media, recognized Ilagan’s inspiring comeback and his impact in Blackwater’s dominant victory.

     

    He emerged ahead of a strong group of contenders that included fellow Blackwater standout Sedrick Barefield, NLEX Road Warriors veteran Kevin Alas, and Phoenix Fuel Masters forward Jason Perkins.

     

    For Ilagan, the honor serves as another milestone in what has already been an encouraging return from injury. After months of rehabilitation and working his way back to full fitness, his performance offered an early glimpse of the contributions he can make as Blackwater looks to establish itself as a serious contender this conference.

     

    The Bossing will now look to build on their impressive opening victory when they face the Magnolia Hotshots on Friday, July 17, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. With Ilagan rediscovering his rhythm and confidence, Blackwater hopes to carry its winning momentum into another challenging matchup as it continues its pursuit of a strong Governors’ Cup campaign.

     

     

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  • Sedrick Barefield keeps eyes on Blackwater’s reset amid trade speculation 

    Sedrick Barefield keeps eyes on Blackwater’s reset amid trade speculation 

    For Sedrick Barefield, the start of the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup represents more than another conference—it is another opportunity to help Blackwater move forward after a disappointing finish, regardless of the offseason speculation surrounding his future.


    While his name has surfaced in trade discussions over the past few months, the Fil-Am guard has made it clear that his attention remains on the only thing he can influence: preparing the Bossing for a fresh campaign.

     

    “I’m pretty locked in. There’s a lot of rumors and a lot of things going around, and I’m just trying to stay focused on what I can control, which is going on the court and being there for my teammates,” Barefield said.

     

    The trade chatter has persisted throughout the offseason, with Barfield’s agent previously revealing that several PBA teams have expressed interest in acquiring the high-scoring guard. 

     

    Despite the interest, no deal has materialized. Barefield remains with the Bossing after signing a contract extension that allows Blackwater to retain his rights while evaluating possible trade scenarios.

     

    As long as he stays in Blackwater, the 2024 No. 2 overall pick is expected to remain a key piece of the team’s offense after a breakout Commissioner’s Cup campaign.

     

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    The Fil-Am guard averaged 21.1 points while also contributing 3.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game.

     

    His individual production, however, wasn’t enough to lift Blackwater into contention.

     

    The Bossing finished with a 2-10 record, missing the playoffs for the ninth straight conference, leaving the franchise still searching for a turnaround after another difficult campaign.

     

    Now, Blackwater hopes the arrival of a new import can help change its fortunes as the team brought in Kentrell Barkley, who impressed during his stint with Kesatria Bengawan Solo in the Indonesian Basketball League, to reinforce the roster heading into the Governors’ Cup.

    Barefield has liked what he has seen during their early time together.

     

    “He’s easy to play with. He likes to play the right way and the smart way. He can score the ball and rebound. He’s multi-dimensional, so he’s been phenomenal so far.”

     

    As Blackwater prepares for its season opener against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on Saturday, July 11, at the Ynares Center in Montalban, Rizal, Barefield’s focus remains unchanged. 

     

    Trade rumors may continue to circulate, but the guard is placing his energy on helping the Bossing translate individual talent into the team success that has long eluded the franchise.

     

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  • Sedrick Barefield to stay with Blackwater Bossing after trade talks stall

    Sedrick Barefield to stay with Blackwater Bossing after trade talks stall

    Filipino-American guard Sedrick Barefield appears set to remain with Blackwater Bossing for the remainder of the ongoing PBA season after uncertainty surrounding his future ultimately failed to result in a trade.

     

    Barefield had recently emerged as one of the most talked-about names on the PBA trade market after it became known that Blackwater management was entertaining offers for the versatile backcourt player. Several teams reportedly expressed interest in acquiring the 29-year-old, whose ability to score, create offense, and defend multiple positions made him an attractive trade target.

     

    Despite the level of interest, however, Blackwater was unable to find a proposal that met the organization’s expectations.

     

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    As a result, Barefield’s contract has been automatically extended through the end of the current PBA season, allowing the Bossing to retain his services after no trade agreement materialized.

     

    The guard’s original contract was scheduled to expire on July 15. Under PBA rules, player contracts that are due to lapse before the conclusion of the season may be extended until the season ends by mutual consent between the player and the team. The provision ensures roster continuity while protecting the rights of both parties during an active campaign.

     

    Rey Punongbayan, Barefield’s representative, confirmed on Thursday, July 2, that his client had agreed to the extension, ensuring that Blackwater would continue to hold his playing rights for the remainder of the season.

     

    While speculation surrounding Barefield’s future intensified over the past several weeks, Blackwater owner Dioceldo Sy revealed that the franchise ultimately chose to stand pat after receiving offers that failed to provide sufficient value in return.

    “No good deals. We decided to stay as a team,” Sy said.

     

    Head coach Pat Aquino echoed that sentiment, indicating that management had decided against making any roster changes despite the team’s disappointing campaign.

     

    “Status quo. We will not move anybody as per Boss Dio.”

     

    The decision signals Blackwater’s commitment to keeping its core intact as it looks to bounce back from a difficult showing in the previous PBA Commissioner’s Cup. The Bossing struggled throughout the tournament and finished at the bottom of the standings with a 2-10 win-loss record, falling short of playoff contention and prompting questions about the direction of the franchise.

     

    Rather than reshuffle the roster midway through the year, Blackwater appears determined to give its current group another opportunity to improve, with Barefield expected to remain a central figure in the team’s plans.

     

    Since arriving in the PBA in 2024, Barefield has established himself as one of Blackwater’s primary offensive weapons. His combination of athleticism, shot creation, and perimeter scoring has made him a key contributor, while his experience playing in multiple international leagues has added valuable maturity to the Bossing backcourt.

     

    Barefield’s basketball journey has been anything but conventional. After going undrafted in the 2019 NBA Draft, he began his professional career with the Oklahoma City Blue in the NBA G League before embarking on an international career that took him across several competitive basketball markets.

     

    The former Utah and Central Florida standout has suited up for clubs in Lithuania, Greece, and Taiwan, gaining experience against a variety of playing styles before joining the Bay Area Dragons in the East Asia Super League. His performances overseas eventually paved the way for his move to the PBA, where Blackwater secured his services ahead of the 2024 season.

     

    Although trade rumors may have dominated the headlines in recent weeks, Barefield’s immediate future now appears settled. With management opting against making a deal and the team choosing continuity over change, the Filipino-American guard is expected to continue leading Blackwater as the Bossing attempt to turn their fortunes around in the remainder of the season.

     

     

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  • Nick Demusis returns to PBA stage as Blackwater adds veteran forward to Governor’s Cup campaign 

    Nick Demusis returns to PBA stage as Blackwater adds veteran forward to Governor’s Cup campaign 

    Nick Demusis is set to make his return to the PBA after Blackwater brought in the veteran forward for the remainder of Season 50, adding him to the Bossing roster ahead of the third conference Governors’ Cup.


    The 6-foot forward was officially welcomed into the Blackwater organization on Monday by team manager Johnson Martinez as the franchise looks to strengthen its lineup for the upcoming conference.

     

    Demusis’ arrival comes as Blackwater continues to make adjustments to its roster, with the team parting ways with veteran big man Bradwyn Guinto and third-year center Clifford Jopia. 

     

    There are also discussions surrounding a possible trade involving Christian David.

     

    The comeback marks Demusis’ return to competitive basketball after his stint with the Zamboanga Valientes in the Dubai International Basketball Invitational Tournament. 

     

    His overseas campaign gained attention after an incident involving Ismael Romero during a game against Al Ahli Tripoli, where Demusis was attacked. 

     

    The incident later led Demusis and the Valientes to file a complaint against Romero, affecting Romero’s chances of securing a contract as Meralco’s import for the Commissioner’s Cup.

     

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    Before his international stint, Demusis built his reputation as a dependable forward in the local basketball scene. His performances helped him become recognized as a versatile player, eventually earning him a place in the PBA Draft.

     

    The Filipino-American forward was selected 18th overall by the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters in the 2021 PBA Draft. 

     

    After spending a season with Phoenix, Demusis was later included in a trade package that sent him and two future second-round draft picks to Rain or Shine in exchange for Javee Mocon.

     

    With the Elasto Painters, Demusis developed a reputation as an energetic contributor who provided effort on both ends of the floor. 

     

    During the 2022–23 season, he posted one of his more productive campaigns, averaging 5.4 points and 4.3 rebounds per game while giving Rain or Shine added depth in the frontcourt.

     

    His final PBA appearance came with Rain or Shine in Season 49, where he averaged 2.4 points per game before his contract expired in 2025 and was not renewed. 

     

    Now, the move to Blackwater gives Demusis another opportunity to revive his PBA career and provide veteran presence as the Bossing enter a new phase of their campaign.

     

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  • Blackwater bets on proven winner as Kentrell Barkley brings championship pedigree to PBA 

    Blackwater bets on proven winner as Kentrell Barkley brings championship pedigree to PBA 

    Blackwater is not taking a chance on an unknown name for the upcoming PBA Governors’ Cup.

    Instead, the Bossing are bringing in a player whose passport is stamped with championships, MVP trophies, and scoring exploits from leagues across Asia.

     

    Kentrell Barkley will be Blackwater’s import for the season-ending conference, adding another chapter to a basketball journey that has already taken him through multiple countries and several championship runs.

     

    For the Bossing, the move is about more than adding talent. It is about bringing in a player who has consistently found ways to impact winning wherever he has played.

     

    Coach Pat Aquino confirmed that the 29-year-old reinforcement is expected to arrive next week, giving him ample time to familiarize himself with the team before the Governors’ Cup opens on July 10.

     

    Standing 6-foot-5, Barkley fits comfortably within the PBA’s import height limit while bringing a résumé that few incoming reinforcements can match.

     

    His most recent success came in Indonesia, where he established himself as one of the league’s premier players. He captured the IBL Most Valuable Player award in 2024 and earned a spot on the league’s Mythical Team. This season, he further showcased his versatility by finishing as the league’s top rebounder while suiting up for Kesatria Bengawan Solo.

     

    But Indonesia is only one stop in a career built across the region.

     

    After going undrafted in the NBA and spending a season with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the G League, Barkley took his game overseas and quickly made a name for himself.

     

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    His impact was immediate in Taiwan, where he helped Taiwan Beer win a championship and earned the league’s Best Foreign Player award in 2020.

     

    He added another title to his collection in 2023 with the Saigon Heat in the Vietnam Basketball Association, where he completed a dominant campaign by winning both the league MVP and Finals MVP honors.

     

    That same year, Barkley also proved he could fill up the scoreboard at will, finishing as the scoring champion of the ASEAN Basketball League Invitational Tournament while representing the Singapore Slingers.

     

    Now, the next challenge awaits in the PBA.

     

    For Blackwater, the arrival of Barkley represents a chance to inject experience, production, and a winning mentality into a team looking to make noise in the Governors’ Cup. For Barkley, it is an opportunity to test his game in one of Asia’s most passionate basketball environments.

     

    The Bossing are hoping that the latest stop in Barkley’s well-traveled career will bring the same results he has delivered nearly everywhere else — victories, accolades, and perhaps another championship chase.

     

     

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  • Macau Black Knights’ trio ignites late-game grit, crushes Blackwater’s playoff hopes 

    Macau Black Knights’ trio ignites late-game grit, crushes Blackwater’s playoff hopes 

    Macau’s campaign in the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup may be nearing its end, but its core trio made sure it wouldn’t go quietly.

     

    In a game that felt more like a battle for pride than position, the Black Knights leaned heavily on Jenning Leung, Damian Chongqui, and Ramon Cao to escape with a tense 123-119 victory over Blackwater on Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.


    Leung and Chongqui fired 30 points each, while Cao poured in 29, accounting for 89 of the team’s total output. More importantly, their scoring came exactly when needed, steadying Macau through every Blackwater rally.

     

    “Damian had a big night, Jenning had a big night and Ramon. I’m really happy for Ramon and Jenning because they didn’t really play to their caliber in the last game against TNT,” head coach Marcus Elliott said.

     

    Macau looked in control early, stretching the lead to 13, but the game gradually shifted into a test of composure. Blackwater, despite missing import Robert Upshaw III for most of the contest due to a calf injury, refused to fold.

     

    Instead, the Bossing turned to their local unit, with Paul Zamar and Christian David stepping up with 21 points apiece. Their persistence nearly paid off when BJ Andrade trimmed the deficit to a single point, 120-119, in the final moments.

     

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    But in a game defined by its stars, it was Leung who delivered the final blow—two clutch free throws with 19 seconds left that ultimately sealed the win.

     

    Interestingly, Upshaw’s absence may have disrupted more than just Blackwater’s rotation.

     

    “I think that backfired on us, actually. I think it took the life out of Tony, it looked like his motivation went down a little bit, so I think that helped them with Upshaw not playing,” Elliot said.

     

    Tony Mitchell still produced a gritty double-double of 11 points and 22 rebounds, but Macau’s rhythm appeared briefly unsettled by the unexpected change in matchup dynamics.

     

    With the result, both teams now sit at 2-8, tied with the worst records in the eliminations. Yet the implications diverge sharply.

     

    For Macau, the win offers a chance to close its inaugural PBA stint on a high note, with upcoming games against Terrafirma on May 2 and Phoenix on May 9.

     

    Blackwater, on the other hand, faces a more complicated path. Despite the loss, the Bossing remain mathematically alive in the playoff race, thanks to earlier wins over Magnolia and San Miguel. However, their fate is no longer entirely within their control.

     

    They must now sweep their remaining assignments against Meralco on May 3 and Converge on May 9—and hope other results fall their way.

     

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  • “Trying to make the most of every opportunity”: Paul Zamar steps up in Blackwater’s win over San Miguel

    “Trying to make the most of every opportunity”: Paul Zamar steps up in Blackwater’s win over San Miguel

    The Blackwater Bossing have endured a difficult stretch in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup, managing just two wins in their first eight outings to languish near the bottom of the standings at 11th place. For a team trying to rebuild and establish consistency, the early part of the conference has been marked by uneven performances, injuries, and constant lineup adjustments.

     

    But on Wednesday, April 22, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, Blackwater found a much-needed breakthrough. In a statement victory, they stunned the powerhouse San Miguel Beermen, 126–120, in a high-scoring affair that showcased both their offensive firepower and renewed sense of urgency.

     

    Import R. Upshaw led the charge with 35 points, while Sedrick Barefield added 29, forming a potent one-two punch that kept San Miguel’s defense on its heels all game long. Yet beyond the headline numbers, it was the performance of veteran guard Paul Zamar that provided one of the night’s most compelling storylines.

     

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    Coming off the bench, Zamar delivered 12 points in just under 18 minutes—an efficient and timely contribution that underscored both his experience and readiness. For the 38-year-old, the performance carried extra weight, as it marked a significant step in his return to meaningful basketball after a long and uncertain road back from injury.

     

    “This is almost my first real competition in almost two years. Na-ACL ako, I was out for one year, last conference I was just playing spot minutes, I didn’t know kung maglalaro ako,” Zamar said in a media interaction.

     

    Zamar’s journey back to the court has been anything but straightforward. After recovering from a serious ACL injury, he found himself without a contract when the NorthPort Batang Pier opted not to re-sign him. For a player at his age, such a situation often signals the end of a career. However, opportunity knocked once more when Blackwater franchise owner Dioceldo Sy extended him a lifeline, offering him a roster spot and a chance to prove he still belongs.

    Even with that opportunity, minutes were not guaranteed. Under then-head coach Jeff Cariaso, Zamar saw limited action, as the team prioritized developing younger talent. The veteran understood the situation, acknowledging both the team’s direction and the realities of his stage in his career.

     

    Circumstances shifted, however, when injuries sidelined key guards RK Ilagan, Dalph Panopio, and Jed Mendoza. At the same time, a coaching change brought in Pat Aquino, opening the door for Zamar to carve out a larger role.

     

    “I know the direction of coach Jeff, he wants to play the younger players. Now kay coach Pat, nabibigyan ako ng opportunities. Everyday, every practice, my approach is to get myself ready. We never know when an opportunity will come. I’m trying to make the most out of every opportunity na binigay sakin,” he added.

     

    Over his last two appearances in the conference, Zamar has averaged 13 points and 2.5 assists in roughly 20 minutes per game—numbers that reflect both his efficiency and his ability to contribute despite limited playing time. More importantly, his presence has added stability and leadership to a team still searching for rhythm.

     

    For Zamar, every game carries added significance as he approaches what could be the final chapter of his professional career. While his future with the franchise remains uncertain, his focus is firmly on the present—making the most of every minute he gets on the floor.

     

    “I don’t know kung ano plano ng management sa’kin after this but I’m trying to enjoy the moment, enjoy every practice, every game. But of course I want to play, I want to finish the season then we will take it from there. Hopefully ma-extend, hopefully. I will just have to be ready,” Zamar concluded.

     

    As Blackwater looks to build momentum from their upset win, all eyes now turn to their upcoming matchup against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Friday, April 24, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. With renewed confidence and contributions coming from both stars and veterans alike, the Bossing will aim to climb out of the lower rungs of the standings—and perhaps rewrite the narrative of their season.

     

     

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