Bossing Stun Beermen in Comeback Win, Give Aquino First Victory

Blackwater broke free from its recent slump with a thrilling 126-120 upset over San Miguel Beer on Wednesday night in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The Bossing seemed in control after building a commanding 22-point lead, but San Miguel mounted a fierce third-quarter rally that turned the game into a nail-biter. However, Blackwater regained its composure when it mattered most, finding the poise and firepower needed to close out the Beermen.

Christian David and Sedrick Barefield were pivotal in the win, combining to erase a 114-113 deficit and push Blackwater ahead for good. BJ Andrade then sealed the victory with key baskets off hustle plays, helping extend the lead to six with under two minutes left.

Robert Upshaw III capped off the win with clutch free throws, securing Blackwater's first victory in five games and giving interim head coach Pat Aquino his inaugural win at the helm.

“We knew they were going to fight back,” said Aquino, acknowledging San Miguel’s championship pedigree. “This is a championship team, and Coach Leo Austria is a champion coach. We just told the players to stay composed, keep believing, and enjoy the game even when the run comes.”

Blackwater’s resilience was on full display as they delivered a statement win against one of the league’s top contenders.

Upshaw led the charge with a monster performance of 35 points, 17 rebounds, and five assists, celebrating key moments with animated displays. Barefield supported with 29 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists, including 11 points in the crucial fourth quarter to steady the Bossing down the stretch.

David added 15 points, including three three-pointers, while Andrade contributed 13 points and seven rebounds. There were also valuable contributions from Paul Zamar, who tallied 12 points, and rookie CJ Austria, who impressed in his debut with 11 points, six rebounds, and two assists.

“It’s about everyone stepping up and contributing,” Aquino noted. “They’re in the PBA for a reason. We just give them the opportunity, and they have to show up with confidence.”

Blackwater will look to carry the momentum into their next game against Barangay Ginebra on Friday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

For San Miguel, Bennie Boatwright’s monster 38-point, 13-rebound, and six-assist performance went for naught as the Beermen suffered their third loss in four games, dropping to 4-5. June Mar Fajardo added 28 points and 13 rebounds, CJ Perez contributed 24 points, and Marcio Lassiter chipped in 16 points. Despite a massive 44-point third quarter, San Miguel couldn’t sustain the momentum and will look to regroup for their next game against Meralco on April 28.